Paula Hutchinson, PhD (Senior Associate)

Paula is an experienced evaluator, facilitator, and trainer with an M.A. in Educational Psychology and a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Health. Paula has worked in program development and evaluation for over 20 years. Paula’s training and experience have enabled her to work with every sector (i.e., non-profit, health, education, and community services) and with a range of groups, organizations, and health care leaders on a wide range of initiatives. She has developed and conducted evaluations, including those involving people with disabilities, marginalized and rural communities, families in crisis, disability advocacy groups, mental health and addiction programs, and health promotion initiatives. Paula has worked closely with community members, non-profits, the Department of Health and Wellness, IWK Health Center, Nova Scotia Health Authority, and Dalhousie University conducting all types of evaluation, data analysis, evidence-based reviews, and accessible knowledge translation of findings and evidence.

Paula has organized and facilitated community consultations to generate utilization-focused recommendations and influence policy changes. She has developed and delivered online and in-person training for professional, para-professionals, and caregivers. Paula has taught courses at both the Undergraduate and Masters level, focusing on evaluation, inclusive practices for persons with a disability, and family system approaches across the lifespan.

Working collaboratively with others, Paula draws on her formal education and extensive work experience as an independent evaluator and consultant to support clients in “real-world” strategic planning and evaluation.