We have been busy at MNA, and 2024 was no exception. Here are some highlights from the year:
✅Celebrating 20 years of MNA: This was a milestone year as we marked two decades of our journey, growing into a trusted partner in K-16 education and training, technical assistance, program evaluation, and workforce development.
✅ Securing major contracts: Collaborated with colleges and universities that won grants from agencies like the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, National Science Foundation (NSF), NASA – National Aeronautics and Space Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), United States Department of Defense for various K-16 education and workforce development evaluation work.
✅ Expanding partnerships: Worked with private foundations and corporate partners, whose support added depth and strength to our mission.
✅ Growing our team: Welcomed talented evaluators whose dedication was recognized and celebrated by our clients.
✅ Conducting webinars and workshops: Led sessions on Evaluation, Logic Models, and Theory of Change, empowering organizations and individuals to enhance their strategic planning and evaluation capacity.
✅ Navigating challenges: Grieved and then accepted the loss of a few partnerships, embraced forgiveness and mindfulness, and found strength in moving forward.
✅ Memories of my parents: Their guidance and values of hard work and fortitude continue to inspire me daily. My dear mother’s words (from the Bhagavad Gita), “कर्म करो, फल की चिंता मत करो,” (Do your duty, don’t worry about the results) remain a constant source of strength and wisdom.
✅ Blending garam chai and work: Like brewing the perfect cup of chai, report writing requires patience, creativity, and the right mix of ingredients. Both are essential companions in my professional journey. We reached a milestone of 500+ evaluation reports.
✅ Indulging in fiber art: Crocheted to unwind and channel creativity, sharing warmth through handmade pieces that became a symbol of care and connection.
✅ Acknowledging personal growth: The year was not without its national and global challenges, but through resilience and mindfulness, we strengthened our resolve to face what lies ahead.
As we step into 2025, let’s embrace the unwritten chapters with hope, gratitude, and resilience.
