I am Tonya Farrow Chestnut, PhD
An exceptional mixed methods spatial data research analyst experienced in designing and generating complex socio-economic statistical analysis across fine grained geographies and translating those results into clearly stated insights for non-technical audiences on issues relating to the determinants of structural inequalities. My research designs utilize qualitative and quantitative empirical approaches to address research questions; when appropriate.
CAPABILITIES
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Spatial Analysis
Unique expertise using quantitative, spatial statistical analysis, spatial clustering, and geographic information systems (GIS) to study questions related to political and economic geography. Skills include spatial statistics, redistricting, racial gerrymandering, the Voting Rights Act, and political geography.
Primary Data Collection
Expertise implementing empirical research demonstrating how social networks provide access to support, information, power, and resources by examining the social network determinants of equity and economic mobility.
Quantitative Social Network Analysis
Mastery analyzing city-wide interpersonal social networks structures, performing comparative assessments of urban population social networks and access to opportunities and resources for jobs, education and housing.
Equity in Policy
Skillfully expose relationship between race and mobility and how it reflects the historical legacy of segregation. Critically assess trends housing inequity, education and criminal justice policy. Crafting insights and opportunities to engage civic, business, and political leaders to establish equity goals including increasing civic engagement and empowerment – such as promoting efforts to encourage voting.
Community Based Participatory (CBPR)
Practiced evaluating patient-centered medical home model (PCMH) and community based participatory (CBPR) approach. PCMH - aims to improve quality, cost, and patient and provider experience, emphasizing patient-centered, comprehensive, coordinated, accessible care, and systematic focus on quality and safety. CBPR - addresses persistent problems of health care disparities in populations including historically underrepresented populations, e.g., racial and ethnic minorities; low-income, rural, and inner-city populations; women; and children.
Mixed Methods: Quantitative & Qualitative Designs
Highly skilled in primary mixed methods designs - emergent methodology that systematically integrates quantitative and qualitative data (e.g., participant observation, developing survey instruments, interviews). Rigorously apply procedures collecting and analyzing data, ensuring the appropriate sample size for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Establish procedures within social constructionist models i.e., ecosocial.
PROJECTS
Conducted literature review on legislative districting criteria to inform the NCDP 12TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CHAIR’s voter registration and innovative and efficacious “get out the vote” strategies. Constructed GIS database and performed spatial analysis to identify and prioritize regions for recruitment efforts.
Research Consultant | NCDP 12 th Congressional District Chair | Charlotte, NC
The novel “How We Rise” project was a multi-city multimillion dollar project from the Race, Prosperity, and Inclusion initiative at Brookings that focuses on ecconomic mobility and policy solutions to upend structural racism. Reported to Brookings Director/Senior Fellow.
Research Manager | Brookings InstITute, Washington, DC
Postdoctoral research focused on aging in place and economic resilience to COVID-19 for aging populations.
Research Analyst
Maine Center for Business & Economic Research, Cutler Institute, University of Southern Maine, Portland, ME
Postdoctoral responsibilities included providing research assistance to the Department Chair and instruction for the Environmental Planning course. Environmental Planning, Geography of Global Economics and World Urbanization courses.
Postdoctoral Fellow | University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC
CONTACT
My keen interest in research stems from my desire to apply my unique skills set to make a difference when it comes to equity. With progressive experience and training, including but not limited to:
10+ years of quantitative research experienced in designing and generating complex socio-economic statistical analysis across fine grained geographies and translating those results into clearly stated insights for non-technical audiences.
Unique expertise in social science quantitative methods, spatial statistical analysis, and GIS.· Command of statistical modelling.
I look forward to partnering with your team as they engage in equity advocacy.
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