Considerations for Equitable Program Evaluation

Workshop Description

Considerations for Equitable Program Evaluation will cover important considerations for equitable evaluation that can be applied across organizational structures. The webinar will introduce equitable program evaluation, its definition, and its significance, particularly in understanding the impact on marginalized populations. Common challenges, facilitators, and emerging resources for effective equitable evaluation will be discussed, addressing barriers and improving quality to mitigate unintended consequences and expand positive impacts.

The session will include interactive discussions and case studies featuring program evaluation scenarios, allowing participants to apply their learning and share key takeaways in a co-learning environment. Attendees will gain a better understanding of equitable evaluation, effective approaches, and practical application. 

Learning Objectives

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Define equitable program evaluation and distinguish it from traditional evaluation approaches, with an emphasis on its relevance to social work values such as social justice and dignity and worth of all persons.
• Identify common challenges and facilitators to implementing equitable program evaluations within diverse human service settings, including grant- or funder-driven frameworks.
• Analyze real-world evaluation scenarios to assess the effectiveness of programs in addressing the needs of marginalized populations, using principles of cultural humility and anti-racist practice.
• Apply emerging tools and strategies for integrating equity-focused evaluation into program planning and continuous quality improvement processes.

Continuing Education Credits: 1.5

This workshop is approved for licensed social workers, licensed mental health counselors, licensed marriage and family therapists, and licensed psychologists.

Presenter: Imani Hutchinson

Imani Hutchinson, MSW, is a policy researcher and program evaluator with deep expertise in equitable evaluation, cultural humility, and social justice. As a Research Analyst at MEF Associates, she leads and supports federal and state evaluations related to TANF, SNAP, child support, and Head Start, integrating culturally responsive and anti-racist practices throughout the research process. Imani has managed qualitative studies, co-developed equity-focused evaluation tools, and guided technical assistance for human service agencies nationwide. Her work centers on elevating community voice—particularly from individuals with lived experience—to improve program effectiveness and accountability. Imani has presented on equitable evaluation at national forums and holds a Master of Social Work from Howard University with a concentration on displaced and marginalized populations.