About Us  

History

The Center for Public Policy and Social Research (CPPSR) has been designated a Connecticut Higher Education Center of Excellence by the Board of Trustees of the Connecticut State University System.  CPPSR was founded at Central Connecticut State University in 2003 through the merger of Center for Social Research, established in 1992, and the Center for Public Policy and Practical Politics, established in 2000.

Goals

CPPSR is noted for offering innovative academic research and outreach programs which promote a greater understanding of the history, structure, processes, personnel and policies of State government. Through its work, the center seeks to illustrate the important role of our state’s contribution to national policy, and to encourage active participation in local and state affairs through thoughtful citizenship and public service.

Resources

The center incorporates the Governor William A. O'Neill Endowed Chair in Public Policy and Practical Politics and works collaboratively with the affiliated Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy and that Institute's Justice Policy Division, and the U.S.-China Center on many initiatives in the areas of public policy, applied research, and development of student service learning experiences.The center has assumed a leading role in providing for the professional education and training of government officials.

CPPSR's social research unit functions as an affordable resource for local and state government, non-profit organizations and communities needing expert consultancy or assistance, such as survey research, communication campaigns, program evaluation and project development.

Among the University resources available through CPPSR are expert faculty and motivated students from CCSU's Schools of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Professional Studies, and Engineering and Technology. CPPSR offers faculty and students a valuable opportunity to apply their academic knowledge and applied research experience to real-world environments.

Location

The center is located on the campus of Central Connecticut State University in the Robert C. Vance Academic Center, with a Social Research  office in Frank J. DiLoreto Hall.