Changed and challenged: Rockefeller student attends APPAM conference

By Indiana Nash 

ALBANY, N.Y. (Dec. 1, 2025) — Changed and challenged: That’s how Rockefeller College student Akhenaton Lazarre came away from the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM) conference last month. 

Lazarre, a senior studying political science and public policy with a minor in international development, was awarded an undergraduate fellowship for the conference, which took him to Seattle, Washington. 

The fellowship, called the Diversity and Inclusion Fellowship, is a well-earned honor, according to Ashley M. Fox, associate professor and Undergraduate Program Director.  

“Since meeting Akhenaton, I have been exceedingly impressed by his determination, hard work and commitment,” Fox said.   

Beyond being a dedicated student, Fox noted Lazarre often comes to office hours to go over quiz results and weekly materials.   

“What is striking to me about these meetings is that unlike other students who come to meet with me to try to improve their grade or argue that the questions were unfair or misleading, Akhenaton genuinely wants to learn about how the policy process works in the US, and beyond,” Fox said. “Ultimately, Akhenaton wishes to apply this knowledge to improve the lives and livelihoods of people in his community and people living in poverty around the world.”  

We recently caught up with Lazarre about his experiences at APPAM and his advice for fellow students.   

What led you to Rockefeller? 

I chose Rockefeller College because of its unparalleled commitment to turning public service theory into tangible action. The curriculum is designed for real-world impact, and that was a major draw for me. This has been proven true through the incredible opportunities I've had, from applying classroom knowledge during my part-time work in the State Senate and full-time role in the Assembly, to engaging in cutting-edge research.  

I've been able to explore my passion for technology in governance, first by researching the use of AI in NYS local governments with Associate Research Professor Kayla Schwoerer, and now by working with my mentor, Professor Luis Luna-Reyes, on a fascinating project examining the use of AI in emergency rooms. Rockefeller doesn't just teach you about public administration; it immerses you in it. 

Have you previously attended APPAM? 

While I was aware of APPAM through a smaller, regional conference hosted at Rockefeller last year, this was my first time attending the large, fall research conference. That prior exposure definitely fueled my interest, but experiencing the national conference was on a whole other level. I have to express my profound gratitude to the Rockefeller faculty who made it possible: Professor Ashley Fox for her pivotal letter of recommendation, and Dr. Luis Luna-Reyes for his ongoing, invaluable mentorship. I'd also be remiss if I didn't shout out Zakhar Berkovich, the director of undergraduate student services, for his endless patience and support. He's always been there to help me navigate my enthusiasm, even when I'm 'jumping like a rabbit' from one exciting opportunity to the next! 

What made you want to attend APPAM? 

I was honored to be selected for the APPAM Diversity and Inclusion Fellowship. It's not about simple representation; it's about recognizing that building equitable and effective public policy requires a diversity of thought, experience, and dedication. The fellowship supports those of us who are committed to ensuring that the policy-making process truly includes and serves all communities, which is the core of why I entered this field. 

What was your experience at the conference? 

The conference was intellectually electrifying. I immersed myself in panels that directly align with my research interests, including AI and power, the governance of science and technology, and administrative burdens. The most rewarding part, however, was the dialogue. I had the chance to discuss my own research ideas on AI in the public sector with scholars from other universities and research organizations, receiving incredibly constructive feedback that will directly shape my work. 

Beyond the formal sessions, networking with the other fellowship recipients and established professionals was a highlight; connecting with such a passionate and supportive community was genuinely inspiring and made the entire experience unforgettable. While I didn't have a formal presentation this time, the conference served as a dynamic workshop for my research. I engaged in deep conversations about my work on AI in government with experts from various organizations. They offered new methodological perspectives and challenged my thinking in the most productive ways. It was exactly the kind of rigorous, supportive feedback that helped you refine your ideas and elevate your work. This informal yet expert review was invaluable and has already influenced the direction of my research with Dr. Luna-Reyes. 

Do you have any advice for fellow students who are interested in attending future APPAM conferences? 

My number one piece of advice is to APPLY FOR FELLOWSHIPS! Programs like the Diversity and Inclusion Fellowship exist to empower students like us, and they can fully enable your participation. Once you're there, be strategic but open. Plan which panels align with your passions but leave room for spontaneous conversations. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself; the people you meet, from fellow students to senior scholars, are the most valuable resources. Finally, go in with your own ideas. Being able to discuss your research, even informally, transforms you from a passive attendee into an active contributor to the field's conversations.