Maura Shramko

Maura Shramko leads research and evaluation to promote youth well-being and community thriving. Dr. Shramko’s work centers youth voices to strengthen youth-serving programs and systems, with a focus on participatory and qualitative approaches. She is collaborating with youth researchers who have experienced the justice system to identify gaps and recommend improvements for cross-system collaboration to support youth thriving in Wisconsin. 

Dr. Shramko also leads an implementation evaluation of the SchYPAR Youth Participatory Action Research program in Ohio public schools, examining conditions that support youth-led inquiry and action. In addition, she has conducted qualitative research that elevates the perspectives of justice-involved youth, including a study of youth experiences in San Francisco’s Juvenile Hall and an evaluation of Jefferson Parish’s Pre-Arrest Diversion Program, both guided by youth development principles and community input.

In addition, Dr. Shramko leads evaluations that partner with public agencies and local communities to improve community-based public safety initiatives through an asset-based and public health lens. She currently directs evaluations of community-based public safety efforts, including alternative first response and community violence intervention initiatives in Indianapolis, Harris County, Atlanta, and Albuquerque. This body of work applies rigorous methods—including quasi-experimental and cost analysis paired with qualitative and participatory approaches—generating evidence about community-driven approaches to public safety that foster safe and thriving communities.

Dr. Shramko’s prior research cuts across child welfare, adolescent health, and youth development. At the Center for Advanced Studies in Child Welfare, she integrated data to examine child well-being across child welfare, educational, and mental health systems. Prior to this, her research focused on positive youth development, including civic and identity development processes among Latine and LGBTQ+ youth. At Search Institute, she led international youth development research across five countries.