Elizabeth Scott (MPH ’06) was drawn to the University of Minnesota’s dual-degree Master of Social Work (MSW) and Master of Public Health (MPH) because of the curriculum content and opportunities to make connections. During her time in the program she pursued an internship with Rainbow Research, which led to a full-time position after graduation.

Following the birth of her daughter, Scott decided to start her own business in evaluation. JackPine Consulting offers engaged evaluation consultation with community organizations around the Twin Cities. What does that name mean, you ask?

“Jack pine trees are serotinous, which means they do not release their seeds until they are triggered by intense heat, such as a fire. They grow irregularly and look a little scraggly, yet are an important part of a healthy forest. I liked the symbolism!”

When working with communities, Scott often finds herself as the single public health perspective, which she believes amplifies the community voices. Another important tool she uses is a mixed methods approach – including storytelling.

“Those stories help folks really connect with the data.”

Read more about Scott’s evaluation work and efforts to address health equity in this Healthy Generations article.

UPDATE: Elizabeth now serves as a hospice volunteer at Allina Health (01/2023)