Join us in congratulating Hannah Kaplan, Senior Research Associate at Southpaw Insights, our most recent MRII Diversity Award recipient. We invite you to read their story below to learn about the value they place on this award and how it’s helping to further their career.
1. What motivated you to apply for the MRII Diversity Award?
Hannah: I was initially drawn to the award because I resonate strongly with its mission of diversifying the industry. I aim to be a part of making the insights field more inclusive by telling my own story as a queer, nonbinary person and speaking about sexuality and gender inclusivity within research. We need more diversity (in race, gender, ability, etc.) in both the leaders of this industry and in our respondents. I aim to enhance both. I hold a Master of Public Health in Community Health Education, and although I have practical research experience, my academic knowledge was missing industry specificity. I was excited about the opportunity to gain foundational skills through an esteemed program.
2. What does it mean to you that you were selected as the MRII Diversity Award winner?
Hannah: I am incredibly honored to be selected as an MRII Diversity Award winner. Receiving this award reiterates what I’ve witnessed in my past two years in the industry – its leaders are committed to ensuring equitable representation and inviting people from different walks of life into the field. Although we still have a long way to go to ensure historically marginalized groups are represented and thriving in our industry, the dedication of the MRII Diversity Award team and its sponsors is an extremely important step in the right direction.
3. Tell us about your motivations for pursuing an MR/Insights career.
Hannah: Initially beginning my career in public health, I was convinced I would stay in that discipline – until I realized I wanted to weave my foundation of feminist studies into research spaces that might not have equity as a cornerstone. As a Senior Research Associate at Southpaw Insights, I incorporate elements of community-based research and inclusivity in our collaboration with clients. Humans at their core want to be understood, and I love that the insights industry elevates stories with respect and dignity. I hope that others see someone like me in the research and insights world and become inspired to pursue it as a career.
4. What were your initial expectations (both positive and concerning) for the Introduction to Data Analysis Express course?
Hannah: Since I had some initial footing in the market research industry, I was really searching for detailed technical support. Initially, I had some concerns about balancing the coursework with projects, but I was able to integrate it into my week due to the self-paced nature. The in-depth syllabus offered me a rich understanding of each course so I was able to select one that would be optimal for my level.
5. Tell us about your experience with the course.
Hannah: From the minute I dove into the modules, I was grateful that the content was succinct yet comprehensive and full of relevant practical applications. As an avid learner, I was energized by the breadth of material it covered and how relevant it was to my everyday tasks. Thanks to this award, I feel more capable than ever of designing unbiased and respondent-friendly surveys that pinpoint client objectives and deliver insightful recommendations in a creative way.
6. What feature[s] about the course was most valuable to you?
Hannah: I really appreciated the embedded data files, which allowed me to follow along and practice the skills while reading the material. This course furthered my technical skills and enhanced my ability to be a powerful data analyst and strategic storyteller.
7. How do you look to leverage your course experience as you progress in your research and insights career?
Hannah: Now that I have received this valuable professional training in foundational quantitative skills, I can focus on carving out my own style of professional communication and gaining confidence in tackling complex research issues. Given that I was mostly self-taught or learned through my work and teachers at Southpaw Insights, the MRII Diversity Award equipped me with the foundational skills I craved to embark further into my career. Thank you for this opportunity.
MRII launched the Diversity Award program to underscores our commitment to providing fair access to learning opportunities for market researchers and insights professionals—and reinforce our dedication to supporting efforts to combat racism, discrimination, inequality and injustice. The award is designed for individuals in the U.S. from underrepresented groups who aspire to advance their market research and insights skills.
Recipients receive coverage for the fees of a Principles Express course of their choice, offered in collaboration with the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education, as well as support from the Insights Association with free attendance offered at the annual CRC conference. The MRII Diversity Award is proudly sponsored by Full Circle Research.
