The column in the Spring 2026 Policy & Practice reflects on insights gained from writing American Welfare, emphasizing the essential role of human services in democracy and urging leaders to reshape systems as intentional design choices.
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Human Services as Public Infrastructure
I’m pleased to share this guest column published today by Barrett & Greene. This piece is about truth-telling, not alarmism. Economic instability, technological disruption, climate stress, and public distrust are not abstract forces. They are colliding in people’s lives every day. The question is whether our public systems are being…
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Engaging with ‘American Welfare’: A Reader’s Guide
The author introduces a companion guide for "American Welfare," encouraging readers to engage deeply with its themes. The guide promotes reflection on public systems and invites honest discussion, emphasizing that these systems can be reshaped by understanding their stories.
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Launch Day: American Welfare Is Out in the World
Today marks the launch of "American Welfare: Reclaiming the Dream for All of U.S." after years of development. The book explores poverty narratives, community stability, and public support systems. A launch video is available, encouraging further sharing and discussion.
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On the Eve of Launch: Gratitude, Anticipation, and an Invitation
Tomorrow, American Welfare: Reclaiming the Dream for All of U.S. will be released. This afternoon, I feel a mix of gratitude and anticipation. Gratitude for the people who encouraged this work, challenged my thinking, and stayed curious. And gratitude for the public servants, community leaders, and advocates who consistently show…
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One Week Left: Why This Book Matters Now
"American Welfare," publishing soon, explores the widening gap between national narratives and personal experiences. It argues for viewing well-being as vital infrastructure, advocating for redesigned support systems to foster accessibility, connection, and community resilience.
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What We Build Together: Two Weeks Until American Welfare
Two weeks from today, American Welfare: Reclaiming the Dream for All of U.S. will be out in the world. As the publication date approaches, I keep returning to a simple truth that runs through every chapter of this book: systems do not change on their own. People change them. And…
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The Economists Who Expand What’s Possible
I went into researching American Welfare expecting a history project. I thought I would spend most of my time on how we got here, how “welfare” became a weapon, and why our systems so often feel stuck. What I didn’t expect was that some of the most forward-looking guidance would…
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MLK and the Work of Building a More Just Infrastructure of Well-Being
Why justice requires both compassion and structural change—and how we can build it together. Each year on this day, we return to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words not only to honor his legacy, but to reflect on our own work—the work of building communities where everyone can flourish. King…
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Reclaiming the Dream
The upcoming book, "American Welfare: Reclaiming the Dream for All of U.S.," urges a reimagining of welfare systems to foster community well-being and belonging.