September 2025

Lantz McGinnis-Brown, Matthew May

Research Scholars Lantz McGinnis-Brown and Matthew May are partnering with the Idaho Community Foundation on a study exploring why Idahoans choose to work with and donate to nonprofits. The research will look closely at how motivations differ between long-time Idaho residents and newcomers to the state. The project kicked off in July, and the survey is now underway. Once the data is collected and analyzed, the team will share the findings through an interactive Tableau dashboard.

GLOW Project

Anika Cathcart, Adam Pendergrass, Parker Case

Interns Anika, Adam, and Parker are working with GLOW Idaho on a comparative state-level analysis of psilocybin related legislation. GLOW is interested in seeing how states politically and economically similar to Idaho have explored legalizing psilocybin for medicinal use. Over the past month, the interns have conducted preliminary research on various states that have similar political climates to Idaho to determine where those states have had successes and setbacks regarding the legalization of psilocybin-assisted therapy. Next steps include digging deeper into why specific bills passed or failed and synthesizing the information to develop policymaking strategies to fit Idaho’s specific political circumstances.

Vanessa Fry Recognized GlobalMindED Educator

Research Faculty Vanessa Fry was recently recognized as a GlobalMindED Educator. GlobalMindED is an Inclusive Success NetworkTM creating a capable talent pipeline by connecting students to role models, mentors, internships, and jobs to get grads to financial freedom and economic mobility. Read her Q & A about research, policy, and education that creates lasting change.

Vanessa Fry Collaborates with Visit Boise and Greenville, SC, Chamber of Commerce

Vanessa Fry partnered with Visit Boise and the Greenville, South Carolina, Chamber of Commerce during the Chamber’s Fall 2025 Intercommunity Leadership Visit to Boise. As part of the visit, Dr. Fry moderated a panel discussion exploring shared challenges between the two communities—specifically housing, homelessness, and childcare. Panelists included Kiah Jones, Housing Advisor to the City of Boise Mayor; Idaho State Senator Ali Rabe; and David Durro, President and CEO of the YMCA of the Treasure Valley.

In addition to moderating the panel, Dr. Fry presented Idaho Policy Institute’s research on New Path Community Housing. Her presentation, Building Resilient Futures: The Health Impact of Permanent Supportive Housing, was featured in Boise State University’s Stein Luminary, providing an immersive experience for the visiting delegation.

August Realty Report

Maria Onaindia, Anika Cathcart, McAllister Hall

Curious about the Realty Market in Southwestern Idaho? Featuring data from multiple counties, our August Market Update provides a comprehensive overview of the real estate market in the region. 

• Trump has big plans about homelessness. How could they affect Boise?, Idaho Statesman, September 11, 2025
• As needs rise and funds shrink, Idaho philanthropy is taking a new approach to giving, Boise State Public Radio, September 25, 2025