I teach and conduct research on public policy and administration topics at Southern Utah University. Specifically, my research focuses on how public policies spread across states. I am very interested in observing and explaining how public administrators influence the policy process and partner with state legislatures as part of their work. My current research explores how policy entrepreneurs (think business entrepreneur), create policy and then ensure it is adopted by states and local governments. Much of my research has been under the context of child abuse prevention policies and the spread of these policies over time and location. Beyond this research, I am also looking into the effect of DOJ consent decrees on communities, the growth of state marijuana laws and policies, and the hiring and retention of health professionals in rural areas. I have been fortunate to see my research published in academic and professional outlets, such as the Journal of Organizational Behavior, the Journal of Policy Studies, and the ASPA times.

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A little bit more about me, I love being out and spending time with my wife (Amanda) and our three kids. We typically can be found in our front yard playing baseball or soccer, or hiking around with our poodle. Also, I love all sports! As a Ph.D. student, I had the opportunity to present research at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY.

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Before coming to SUU, I worked for Sandia National Laboratories and the Department of Energy, where I negotiated complex government contracts that reached hundreds of millions of dollars. Having worked outside of academia, I analyze my research in a way that is practical for everyday professionals. I am most excited about my research when I can see the direct effect the research has on street-level employees who are trying to help improve their community. You are more than welcome to contact me and ask questions about my research by emailing me at joelvallett@suu.edu.