Director of Research Center at Life Span Institute Appointed to Census Committee

Jean Hall, Director, KU Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies at the Life Span Institute, has been named to the 2030 Census Advisory Committee (2030 CAC).

Hall joins 22 fellow committee members invited to the committee to serve three-year terms, with an additional term possible at the director's discretion. Committee members include a blend of representatives from the public and private sectors, noted the U.S. Census Bureau in an announcement.

As part of their efforts, committee members will review and provide feedback related to plans for the next census, including assisting the Census Bureau in strategies to increase awareness and participation, reduce barriers, and foster public trust. 

Hall joins the committee as an expert in research examining the intersection of disability, health, employment, and community participation. She has worked in survey development and administration among people with varied disabilities and has specific experience in accessible survey design and multi-modal survey administration.  

In her work, she strives to ensure full participation of people with disabilities, she said.

“Research indicates that many people with disabilities are missed in current federal surveys. As more and more people are living with disabilities due to medical advances, the large population of aging adults, and the effects of long COVID, making sure that federal surveys are inclusive and accurately capture this population is essential," Hall said.

KU researchers working under Hall’s direction administer the National Survey on Health and Disability, a national, longitudinal, internet-based survey of more than 2,500 working-age Americans with a wide range of disabilities. Conducted during the past five years, the effort involves recruiting participants from across the country and has resulted in the development of a strong network of disability service providers and advocates who assist with that recruitment.

Data from the NSHD allow for near real-time feedback from Americans with disabilities on barriers and facilitators to health, access to health care, employment, and community living.  

The Census Bureau announcement noted that in selecting her for the committee, Hall is recognized for providing a voice to people with disabilities and their experiences with accessing health care and living in their communities. Hall identifies as a person with a disability.