About Us | Howard Initiative on Public Opinion

The Howard Initiative on Public Opinion (HIPO) stands resolutely committed to cultivating informed public discourse through research and innovative community engagement. By harnessing the power of public opinion data, HIPO empowers communities through amplifying the opinions of Black Americans. 

With a dedicated team of researchers, HIPO has produced a series of impactful reports and surveys that capture the diverse perspectives of Black Americans. In a notable effort during this general presidential election season, HIPO conducted an extensive three-part study, integrating focus groups and polling to unearth nuanced insights into the opinions of Black Americans in pivotal battleground states regarding the 2024 presidential candidates. The findings have garnered national media attention, underscoring both the significance of the data and HIPO's outstanding contributions. As HIPO’s Director, Dr. Terri Adams, emphasizes, “In this pivotal moment in history, understanding the needs and opinions of our community through a culturally relevant lens is crucial.”

In an era when Black perspectives are frequently marginalized or over simplified, the Howard Initiative on Public Opinion addresses this critical gap. HIPO unites a diverse array of scholars to provide tailored survey and data analysis services, employing a variety of methodological approaches—including focus groups, polls, and interviews—to elevate significant Black opinions.

HIPO unites a diverse array of scholars including Dean Dana Williams (Dean of the Graduate School, English), Marcus Board (Political Science), Clarence Lusane (Political Science), Elsie Scott (Ron Walters Leadership and Public Policy Center), Lorenzo Morris, Emeritus (Political Science),  Jennifer Thomas (Communications, Culture, and Media Studies), Jules Harrell (Psychology), Greg Carr (Afro-American Studies, School of Law), Ron Hopson (Psychology, and School of Divinity), and Terri Adams (Associate Dean of the Graduate School, Sociology & Criminology), Terri Davis, PhD graduate from Communication, Culture, and Media studies program and graduate students Tess Starman (PhD student) and Mark Rivas (Master's student) from Sociology and Criminology.  The team provides tailored survey and data analysis services, employing a variety of methodological approaches—including focus groups, polls, and interviews—to elevate significant Black opinions.

In addition to polling and focus groups, HIPO actively engages the community through a range of town halls and forums. Most recently, during Howard University's homecoming, HIPO hosted a forum titled "Voices of Democracy: Race, Politics, & the 2024 Election." This event featured a distinguished panel of student leaders and esteemed professors, addressing critical topics such as disinformation, voter engagement, voter suppression, and the youth vote.

We would love for you to join us for any upcoming polls, surveys and or focus groups. Your voice matters! Your insights can shape policy. Join us in spotlighting the issues that matter most to you. If you’re interested in participating in future focus groups or polls, please click the link below to complete the necessary information: Online Survey Software | Qualtrics Survey Solutions

It is also important to note, polling initiatives, such as HIPO often partner with corporations/organizations to gather data that informs business decisions, marketing strategies, and corporate social responsibility efforts. Learn more about HIPO here: gs.howard.edu/research/howard-initiative-public-opinion