Hiram Lopez

Originally from San Diego, California, Hiram graduated from the University of California Santa Barbara in 2010 with degrees in political science and sociology. Hiram recently completed the NYC Urban Fellows program at the New York City Police Department where he worked on public policy related to crime control, criminal prosecutions, and counterterrorism. As an undergraduate, Hiram interned with the Latino Public Policy Institute, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, and the National Academy of Social Insurance. He also researched young peoples’ views of Social Security for his senior thesis.

Field placement: La Casa Norte

Chicago, Illinois

Hiram conducted an evaluation of the food and nutrition programs available at a transitional youth shelter for boys, and provided recommendations to help improve client access and consumption of healthy, nutritious food.  He also conducted a food security assessment of the surrounding communities in the Northwest side of Chicago.

Policy placement: AARP Foundation

Washington, D.C.

Hiram conducted an original research study that identified the major barriers to participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) among eligible Americans between the ages of 50-59. He gathered data, interviewed key informants, interviewed SNAP non-participants, and conducted focus groups in five different states. He also conducted and synthesized research about senior hunger.

Publications