As vice president of Research at Student Veterans of America (SVA), Abby Kinch, PhD, oversees all internal and external research initiatives across the organization. She leads strategic research efforts that include comprehensive impact analysis, annual surveys, and the management of SVA’s published knowledge. Under her direction, the research team evaluates the effectiveness of SVA programs for chapters and members, ensuring that evidence-based insights drive the organization’s decision-making and advocacy efforts. Simultaneously, the research team is involved in collaborative research into the economic and cultural issues facing veterans in transition and higher education. Kinch is also responsible for presenting SVA’s research outcomes to various stakeholders, including Congress, the Administration, state governments, higher education institutions, other veteran-serving organizations, and decision-makers, ensuring that SVA’s data contributes to national policy discussions and legislative initiatives.
In addition to her role at SVA, Kinch serves as an adjunct professor at the University of South Florida’s School of Information, teaching courses in data analysis, information strategy, and decision-making, further showcasing her expertise in research and strategic decision-making. Her previous work includes creating the U.S. Intelligence Studies program at Florida State University, where she provided intelligence analysis training to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Kinch’s academic background includes a doctoral degree in Public Administration and Policy from Florida State University, where her research focused on the policies and programs that support student veterans in higher education. Her extensive body of work on this topic spans institutional, state, and national levels, making her a leading expert in the field. She also holds advanced degrees in Public Administration and Asian Studies, as well as undergraduate degrees in Chinese Language and Culture and Linguistics, providing a solid foundation for her leadership in research and strategic management.