Government Research Bureau Announces New Executive Director and Expands Reach
Ed Gerrish, Ph.D., associate professor of public administration in the Department of Political Science, was recently named executive director of the GRB.
Gerrish received his Ph.D. in public affairs from Indiana University and focuses his research on public sector performance, management in the public sector, state and local government finance and meta-analysis. He specializes in research methods, public budgeting and finance.
“I’m excited to continue the Government Research Bureau’s proud tradition of providing service to the state of South Dakota and its communities” said Gerrish.
The GRB is part of the Department of Political Science and offers research services for community improvement in South Dakota. Faculty and student researchers conduct policy analysis, strategic planning, community development and program evaluation.
“The Government Research Bureau is committed to helping local and state governments serve their citizens to their best ability,” Gerrish said. “Many faculty members in the department have a practical focus to their research and service, so it makes sense to collaborate with government entities to put our knowledge into practice.”
Undergraduate and graduate students in the political science department can get involved with the GRB and help with data collection, literature reviews and analyses.
“We involve students in various stages of our projects,” said Gerrish. “For instance, students often analyze surveys for local governments, compile reports under faculty guidance and learn to interpret findings. It’s a valuable hands-on experience that applies classroom learning to real-world projects and helps students build their resumes.”
GRB researchers recently completed the highway safety annual report and also led a successful research study that secured a $400,000 grant to address child care needs in the Vermillion community.
“The GRB enables South Dakota to improve its methods and management practices using cutting-edge techniques, while staying within budget,” Gerrish said. “By keeping the money in-state and utilizing the best available practices, we help ensure that South Dakota is providing effective services to its residents.”
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