Research and Learning at Wyman involves:

Measuring outcomes and using the results for quality improvement

Designing, developing, and evaluating innovations.

Accelerating learning through local and national knowledge exchanges.

Watch this video to learn about the Research and Learning process at Wyman

Approach and Theory of Change

Wyman programs are rooted in Wyman’s Framework for Thriving Youth, a carefully crafted theoretical foundation for Wyman’s programming which captures the essential elements of a transformative youth development approach and the ultimate outcomes that we strive for all youth to achieve: educational success, healthy behaviors and relationships, and life and leadership skills. 

Our Framework emphasizes building skills, developing a positive sense of self, and making connections to others as key levers to achieving these outcomes. Surrounding this work are caring, responsive, and knowledgeable adults who build relationships with young people to create engaging and empowering environments where youth are supported to achieve positive growth. Our Framework for Thriving Youth is grounded in youth development research and serves as the compass for all of Wyman’s programming.

Program logic models map out each program’s specific components and strategy for change within the context of this larger Framework, and guide our outcomes measurement approach.

Learning out Loud: Wyman’s Research and Learning Blog

How it works: Effective partnerships to support equity in degree completions

by Nicki Thomson, PhD Senior Director, Research and Learning Background In collaboration with Dr. Florian Sichling [...]

The long-term, positive impact of Wyman Leaders

by Nicki Thomson, PhD Senior Director, Research and Learning Wyman is committed to ensuring strong [...]

2022 outcomes highlight the determination of young people and the importance of Wyman’s programs

Our 2022 outcomes show that Wyman’s programs and supports are impactful to youth well-being, skill-building, [...]

2021 Program Outcomes: Remaining steadfast in our commitment to teens and our mission

For two years, youth have been navigating disrupted education, isolation from family and friends, reduced [...]

Learning and Responding to Youth Needs: Wyman’s Commitment to Doing the Next Right Thing, Part one of a two-part series

Through 2020 and into 2021, our nation has dealt with the “triple pandemic” of COVID-19, [...]

Learning and Responding to Youth Needs: Wyman’s Commitment to Doing the Next Right Thing, Part two of a two-part series

In the first part of this series, Learning and Responding to Youth Needs: Wyman’s Commitment [...]

It’s Time to Prioritize Healthy Adolescent Social Connections

by Nicki Thomson, Senior Director of Research and Learning, and Grace Bramman, Associate Director of [...]

For Teens in TN Residential Care Centers, TOP Provides Voice, Choice, and Connection to Community

At any given time, more than 8,000 young people in Tennessee, often coming from very [...]

A Focus on Connections – Now, and Beyond the Pandemic

  “I barely interact with people and I’m always cooped up inside the house.” “For [...]