About Sue Hyatt
I’ve been supporting AmeriCorps programs since 1995—14 years before evaluation became a federal requirement. That means I understand not just evaluation methodology, but how programs actually operate, what staff can realistically manage, and what commissions need to see.
I help design and conduct evaluations that meet compliance requirements AND actually strengthen your program operations and evidence.
AmeriCorps Evaluation That Respects Your Reality
I believe strong evaluation starts with understanding what’s realistic given your staffing, timelines, and resources.
That means:
No unnecessary complexity
No “one-size-fits-all” models
No over-your-head jargon
Instead, I help programs focus on what matters most, collect data they can actually manage, and use evaluation findings to strengthen practice over time.
Evaluation doesn’t have to be perfect.
It has to be useful.
30 Years in the AmeriCorps Field—Since Before Evaluation Was Required
I’ve been supporting AmeriCorps programs since 1995—starting with performance measurement training and program coaching long before the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act made evaluation a requirement in 2009.
That means I’ve seen the entire evolution of AmeriCorps evaluation—from early performance measurement systems to today’s evidence-based program design and complex evaluation requirements. I helped programs adapt when evaluation became mandatory, and I’ve continued supporting them as requirements have grown more sophisticated.
My experience spans:
- 1995-2009: Performance measurement training and program operations coaching
- 2009-present: Full-scale evaluation design, implementation, and external evaluation
- Designing and conducting external evaluations
- Providing practical guidance on evaluation planning, data collection, and reporting
I understand AmeriCorps requirements—and I also understand the day-to-day pressures programs face. My role is to help bridge that gap. That perspective shapes every evaluation, training, and recommendation I make.
Why Programs Choose to Work With an Experienced AmeriCorps Evaluator
AmeriCorps evaluation isn’t generic nonprofit evaluation. It requires an understanding of federal requirements, state commission realities, staff capacity, and how programs actually operate on the ground.
Having worked in this field for more than three decades, I bring context and judgment that can’t be learned from guidance documents alone.
Many evaluators focus on methodology first.
I focus on people, context, and capacity.
Programs work with me because I:
- Translate complex requirements into clear, actionable steps
- Respect staff time and capacity
- Design evaluation approaches that fit real-world conditions
- Emphasize learning and improvement—not just accountability
You don’t need a PhD to do evaluation well.
You need clarity, support, and a realistic plan.
A Practical Approach—By Design
I’ve seen evaluation done well—and I’ve seen it create unnecessary stress.
Over the years, I’ve learned that the strongest programs aren’t the ones with the most complicated systems—they’re the ones that:
- Ask clear research questions
- Collect manageable but quality data
- Use what they learn to adapt and improve their program
That’s the kind of evaluation I help build.
Let’s Talk About What You Need
If you’re unsure where to start—or just want to talk through your situation—I’m happy to talk.
We’ll focus on what makes sense for your program and your goals.