2018 Welcome Message

To: Incoming MPP, MPA, MPA-ID, MC/MPA, and PhD students

Welcome to HKS! My name is Demarquin Johnson (MPP2) and I serve as Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Kennedy School Journal of African American Policy (HJAAP). It is great that you will be matriculating this fall. When I was in your shoes, I was excited to learn about the many opportunities awaiting me to ensure I made the most out of my academic, social, and professional journey.

HJAAP is a student-run review with a mission to educate and empower in order to improve the quality of public policies affecting the African American community specifically and the African diaspora at-large. Our annual publication includes a diverse array of pieces ranging from lesson plans to research articles to poems. This year we will be working directly with the Black Policy Conference to integrate our theme into the many panels, workshops, and keynote addresses.

I would like to personally invite you to join the HJAAP team. Whether you enjoy writing, reviewing art, networking, or developing websites, there is a spot for you. Our journal is only possible with student participation, and it is a great way to enrich your tenure at HKS. Additionally, employers appreciate candidates with policy journal experience. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at hjaap@hks.harvard.edu.

Lastly, we have set aside a complimentary copy of this year’s volume for you that can be picked up in the Student Services Office. I look forward to meeting you on campus!