James Pann smiling at the camera, sitting in front of green trees

Hey,
I’m James Pann, Ph.D.

Professor, evaluator, psychologist, and all-around data nerd.

Now, if you’re here then you’re likely interested in learning more about evaluation or looking for an evaluator or researcher. And you want that person to have credibility and expertise. I do – so if reading through a full academic CV is your jam, drop me a line and I’d be happy to send you a copy.

But here’s what you really need to
know about me:

An academic with humor.

I’m an academic with practical, real-world experience, a sleeves-rolled-up work style, and a sly sense of humor

Host. Teacher. Writer.

I host a podcast, teach, and contribute articles to peer-reviewed journals – because I believe in sharing expertise and bettering my field

Multiple degrees.

I have multiple degrees that allow me to do many different things – but I choose to be an evaluator and researcher because it’s meaningful and rewarding

And most importantly, I believe in the work you’re doing and will do everything I can to make sure you succeed.

My career as an evaluator started with my doctoral dissertation on the impact of an Outward Bound program on the literacy and self-concept of youth. Since then I’ve supported countless projects through research and program evaluation, and gone on to work with undergraduate and graduate students as a Professor at Nova Southeastern University.

When I’m not up to my neck in statistics, data, and survey results, you can find me swinging kettlebells, practicing meditation, soaking up Florida sunshine with my family, or planning my next wilderness adventure.

Interested in asking me a research or evaluation question? Or about a specific project you’re working on? Fill out my contact form and I’ll be in touch to set up a time to talk!

My Credentials

James Pann, PhD program evaluator and researcher

Official Bio

James Pann, Ph.D., is a professor at Nova Southeast University and a psychologist and evaluator with nearly 25 years of experience.

A mental health practitioner by background, James conducts research and evaluation projects in collaboration with nonprofit organizations in health, human services, and education. Many of the projects he has evaluated received funding from institutions such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Department of Justice, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

He holds a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and an M.S. Ed. from the University of Miami. He also earned a BBA in Accounting from the University of Texas at Austin. James completed a postdoctoral fellowship in pediatric behavioral medicine at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Miami/Jackson Health Systems.

In addition to his research and evaluation work, James hosts the EvalNetwork podcast where he interviews other evaluators and explores trends and emerging approaches. He has also presented at national conferences, including the American Evaluation Association, American Psychological Association, and the Grant Professionals Association.

His writing has been published in several peer-reviewed journals and one book series. He is currently an Associate Editor at the Journal of Youth Development.

James lives in Miami, Florida with his wife and two children and enjoys backcountry backpacking trips.

Highlighted Papers

Implementation and Evaluation of a Multidimensional Nutrition and Physical Activity Initiative

Funded by a Community Health Foundation. Pann, J., Yehl, A., Wood, P., Schoepp, J., Solomon, G., & Enders, C. (2014). The Foundation Review, 5(4).

Evaluation of the Feasibility and Perceived Value of Integrating Learn the Signs. Act Early.

Abercrombie, J., Pann, J., Shin, F., Taylor, E., Brisendine, A. E., Swanson-Holm, R., James, C., Viehweg, S., & Chödrön, G. (2021). Developmental Monitoring Resources in Early Head Start. Early Childhood Education Journal.

Highlighted Projects

Stress Reduction through Attention Training (SRAT) Research and Evaluation Project

Co-principal investigator of the project, which involved the development, implementation, and study of the SRAT program. The SRAT program consisted of a 6-week mindfulness-based intervention delivered synchronously online and supported by text messaging. The SRAT study targeted several primary outcomes including stress, COVID-19 related stress, mind wandering, and mindfulness.

Project ZERO – Zero Tolerance Effective Rape Reduction Operation (PREA) Program Evaluation

Program evaluation consultant on a jail rape prevention project conducted by the Broward Sherriff’s Office in Broward County, Florida, and funded by the U.S. Department of Justice. The evaluation was conducted using an objectives-oriented approach; attempted to determine the extent to which the project goals were met using survey, interview, and programmatic data.

I'd love to hear what you're working on.