The Capstone course in the MPA Program is a culminating academic experience in which students partner with New York City–based organizations to apply their research, policy analysis, and leadership skills to real community challenges.
The policy briefs below were developed by MPA students in Spring 2026, in partnership with the Caribbean Equality Project, Mentor a Promise, and SAPNA NYC, and under the guidance of capstone instructor Professor Shanelle Matthews.
Each policy brief represents months of rigorous research, community engagement, and close collaboration with organizational partners—reflecting our program’s commitment to training the next generation of public servants and changemakers dedicated to addressing the most pressing equity issues facing New York City today.
I. Caribbean Equality Project— Click here to read the full policy brief
This policy brief was developed in partnership with the Caribbean Equality Project by MPA students Gabriel Gjyla, Jacqueline Pittman, Krystal C. Morel, and Mawume (May) Zormelo.
LGBTQ+ immigrants in New York City face compounding barriers to mental health care—including language access, immigration status, cultural stigma, and a lack of affirming providers. This policy brief examines the gaps in existing mental health services and proposes targeted policy recommendations to expand equitable, culturally competent care for this underserved population.
II. Mentor a Promise— Click here to read the full policy brief
This policy brief was developed in partnership with Mentor a Promise by MPA students Chelsea Rose, Daphne Beans, Khadija Maqsood, and Michelle Fernandez.
Students experiencing homelessness and temporary housing are entitled to critical protections under federal and local law—yet significant implementation gaps persist across New York City schools. This policy brief evaluates barriers to consistent policy enforcement and offers actionable recommendations to ensure students in temporary housing receive the stability and support they are owed.
III. SAPNA NYC— Click here to read the fully policy brief
This policy brief was developed in partnership with SAPNA NYC by MPA students Arianna Adams, Jennifer Moreno, Juan J. Ramírez, Mahin Ashik, and Oluwafemi (Femi) Akinsanya.
South Asian survivors of gender-based violence in New York City often navigate services that are ill-equipped to address their distinct cultural, linguistic, and community needs. This policy brief highlights the structural and institutional barriers survivors face and recommends policy solutions to strengthen culturally responsive, survivor-centered services across the city.
