As an ISPP Scholar, Vyshnavi Jetti is appointed to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency - Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS). Her work is focused on enhancing the Illinois Capability Assessment and Tracking Tool (IL-CATT) to improve data collection and analysis, ensuring that quality data supports training and program priorities in emergency management. In addition, Vyshnavi collaborates on with Illinois Extension staff on the My Preparedness Initiative (MyPI), which provides training to Illinois school children on disaster readiness. Vyshnavi shared some insights with me on her goals for the ISPP program and how her work is already making an impact.
Why did you apply for the Illini Science Policy Program?
I applied for the Illini Science Policy Program because it connects with my background in MIS and my desire to improve people’s lives. This program is an excellent opportunity for me to apply my skills in data analytics and research toward initiatives I'm truly passionate about. I want to utilize technology to create positive change in society, and I believe this program is a crucial step in helping me achieve that goal.
Tell us a bit about what you hope to accomplish as a result of being a 2024 Scholar.
As a 2025 ISPP Scholar, I’m really hoping that my work creates an impact, and I'm excited to see some of that already taking shape. I want to use this experience with real-time data analysis and research to deepen my understanding in this field and see how my contributions help shape the future goals of my host agency and the ISPP program.
Tell us a bit about what you are working on for your host agency.
As a 2025 ISPP Scholar working for IEMA-OHS, I am currently enhancing the IL-CATT (Illinois Capability Assessment and Tracking Tool) process. My work involves developing more efficient methods for data collection and analysis to ensure that we gather high-quality data. I am focused on transforming this data into actionable insights that will support training exercises and inform programmatic priorities in emergency management. By improving the IL-CATT tool, I aim to contribute to my agency and the state with a robust framework for disaster preparedness, which will facilitate better decision-making and resource allocation during emergencies.
Tell us a bit about what you are working with your Extension Mentor (or what you will be doing)?
I’m currently involved with the My Preparedness Initiative (MyPI), which aims to train kids in Illinois about emergencies and disasters. My role focuses on promoting the initiative and doing research to support it. Working with IEMA has really opened my eyes to emergency management, and I’m excited to help with this project. I can’t wait to see how our efforts will help kids in Illinois be more prepared for disasters and make our communities safer.
What does being in public service mean to you?
Public service means using my skills, knowledge, and work to make a positive impact. Making even a small difference in people’s quality of life is deeply meaningful, helping communities thrive and meet their needs.
What makes the work you are doing as an ISPP Scholar meaningful to you? (Please specify between you host agency work and your Extension mentor project)
As an ISPP Scholar, my work is meaningful because it supports community resilience. At IEMA-OHS, I’m enhancing data processes for better emergency response, while my Extension Mentor project, MyPI, promotes youth disaster preparedness in Illinois. Both roles allow me to contribute positively to community safety and preparedness.
What is one thing that you have learned since becoming an ISPP Scholar that has made an impression on your transition from graduate student to career individual?
Since becoming an ISPP Scholar, working with real-time data and seeing the direct impact of my work has really highlighted my shift from student to professional. It’s exciting to know that what I’m doing makes a real difference, and it’s made me feel more connected to the work and its purpose.
Why is/are the issue(s) important to the communities with which you are working?
The issues I’m working on are important to the communities because they directly impact their safety and readiness for emergencies. By improving data collection and analysis at IEMA, we’re helping ensure that our emergency response efforts are effective and well-informed.
Who is impacted by the issue(s) you are working on?
The issues I’m working on impact various stakeholders, including all nine regional officers, county managers, and the IEMA agency. Ultimately, the entire state population is affected, as improved emergency management processes help ensure that communities are better prepared for disasters and emergencies.
What is the most unexpected thing about this program so far?
The most unexpected thing about this program has been realizing the extent of the impact my work can create. I’ve also been pleasantly surprised by how much people value my contributions and how willing they are to collaborate and support each other’s success throughout this journey. It’s encouraging to see such a strong sense of community and teamwork.
If you could do one thing through this program and think “Wow, I did that,” what would you like it to be?
If I could do one thing through this program and think, “Wow, I did that,” it would be successfully automating the IL-CATT process. I would feel proud knowing that my work made data handling easier and contributed to better emergency management for our communities. Seeing the positive impact of my efforts would be really rewarding.
More information about the Illini Science Policy Program is available on our website. Keep reading to learn more about Vyshnavi's colleagues in the of 2025 ISPP Scholar Class.