Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs

The Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs: The Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs

Founded in 2000, WRI provides high quality research and evaluation as well as a venue for public, private and not-for-profit leaders to engage constructively on challenging issues. Read More
16th Annual Walter and Leah Rand Awards and Scholarship Dinner: 16th Annual Walter and Leah Rand Awards and Scholarship Dinner

On May 4th, 2017, WRI held its 16th Annual Walter and Leah Rand Awards and Scholarship Dinner. The event was held at the Scotland Run Golf Club, with over 170 people in attendance. See More Photos
WRI Publishes New Study: WRI Publishes New Study

This report investigates multiple differences between counties in three New Jersey regions: North, Central, and South. The report finds striking differences in the provision of public goods across regions, with South Jersey counties on average receiving less public goods. Download the Report
Involving Youth in Local Government Decision Making Symposium: Involving Youth in Local Government Decision Making Symposium

In conjunction with the Institute for Effective Education and the Rutgers University Camden Office of Civic Engagement, WRI convened students from high schools across the state, as well as local government officials, to explore current and potential methods of involving youth in government decision making. Read More
WRI Facilitates Inaugural Bridgeton Health Coalition Meeting: WRI Facilitates Inaugural Bridgeton Health Coalition Meeting

On September 21, 2016, the Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs in partnership with stakeholders in the City of Bridgeton and Cumberland County held the official kickoff meeting for the Bridgeton Health Coalition (Pictured Mayor Albert B. Kelly). Read More
The Forum About South Jersey: “Don’t Sugarcoat It”: The Forum About South Jersey: “Don’t Sugarcoat It”

On Thursday, September 15th, Faculty Fellow Janice M. Beitz shared her findings on services available for the anticipated diabetes tsunami in Southern New Jersey. Read More
Engaging the South Jersey Community: Engaging the South Jersey Community

WRI is dedicated to the citizens and communities of South Jersey. Through innovative research, neutral convening and facilitating, and a host of other programs, WRI stands on the forefront of activity in this active region. Read More
WRI Advisory Board: WRI Advisory Board

WRI is guided by insight and contribution from a representative cross-section of South Jersey’s public, private, and non-profit experts. Read More

Latest News

WRI Hires New Associate Director

WRI would like to welcome Darren Spielman, PhD, as their new Associate Director. Darren comes to WRI with over twenty years of leadership experience in the nonprofit and education sectors, where he has worked to improve the lives and life chances of vulnerable citizens.

Dr. Kris Singh Named 2017 South Jerseyan of the Year

In recognition of continued contributions to energy research, the development of a $320 million business complex, and an investment into future jobs creation in Camden City, WRI is honoring Dr. Kris Singh—Founder, President and CEO of Holtec International—as its Private Sector South Jerseyan of the Year.

WRI Selects Second New Faculty Fellow

WRI has selected its second Faculty Fellow for the year, Dr. Michael S. Hayes. An assistant professor in the Department of Public Policy and Administration at Rutgers-Camden, Dr. Hayes’ research will follow on the Institute’s well-received report Is South Jersey Getting it’s ‘Fair Share’ of Public Goods.

South Jersey Facts

Each county links to more information to view more information.

Annual Network Meeting Award