Writing for Decision-Makers with Agnes Balla, BSPH '15 (MPP)

Writing for Decision-Makers with Agnes Balla, BSPH '09 (MHS) Header Image

Lifelong Learning LogoCourse Title: Writing for Decision-Makers

Instructor: Agnes Balla, BSPH '15 (MPP)

Brought to you by Odyssey  

January 29, 2026 - February 26, 2026 (5 Sessions) 

Thursdays, 11:30AM ET- 1:30PM ET 

Virtual via Zoom

Course Description: Course Description: This course introduces the study of public policy and the professional practice of writing for decision-makers. Using Eugene Bardach’s Eightfold Path model, you will critically examine contemporary social issues and communicate clear, effective policy recommendations. The course emphasizes concise, actionable writing designed to capture and sustain the attention of policy and organizational leaders. To fully engage in course activities, participants will need a copy of the required text. 

Required Text: Eugene Bardach’s A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis: The Eightfold Path to More Effective Problem Solving (2009).

Explore more lifelong learning opportunities in our full SPRING 2026 Odyssey Catalog

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Johns Hopkins Tuition Remission Policies 
Tuition benefits are available to University faculty, staff, and retirees only. Employees of Johns Hopkins Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, or the Applied Physics Laboratory should contact your institution’s Human Resources office for information about tuition remission and eligibility:
Select the correct ticket pricing during registration. If we cannot confirm your university eligibility, you will be requested to pay the full registration price for each course. Complete eligibility details can be found here.
Withdrawals & Refunds:
If a course is canceled or closed, the registrant is notified immediately, and a full refund is processed automatically unless another course is requested. Registrants who wish to withdraw from an active course must complete the online Odyssey Refund Request Form. Attach any documentation to support your request (e.g., medical documentation, family crisis documentation, etc.).
  • 100% refund: Prior to the start of the course and after the first class.
  • No refunds: After the first week of each course unless in exceptional cases.
For single-session courses:
100% refundable within two (2) business days of the event.
Please note, refunds apply only to the tuition portion of an Odyssey participant’s charges and are not applicable to any fees or gifts made to the Johns Hopkins Alumni Association. Registrants will be notified by email if a refund is approved within five (5) business days.
ABOUT Agnes Balla, BSPH '15 (MPP)

Agnes Balla is a Director with the Research Policy Analysis and Coordination unit at the University of California (UC) Office of the President. In this role, she leads systemwide policy development and provides expertise on issues related to the conduct and administration of research across UC campuses. Her portfolio spans topics including human subjects research, data access and management, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Agnes regularly monitors legislative and policy developments, prepares systemwide responses to proposed rules, and serves as the University’s representative on several committees, including the Policy Advisory Committee overseeing UC’s policy development process.

As an instructor, Agnes equips students with practical tools to analyze complex problems and write with clarity and impact. She fosters critical thinking and prepares learners of any age to become effective communicators through structured writing. Her course, Writing for

Decision-Makers, reflects her belief that well-crafted analysis and concise writing can empower individuals to shape policy conversations and drive meaningful change.

Agnes holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Public Policy degree from Johns Hopkins University.

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 Event Date
Starts:
Thursday, January 29, 2026
11:30am EST

Ends:
Thursday, February 26, 2026
1:30pm EST

 Contact
Odyssey
Office of Alumni Relations Lifelong Learning
1-800-JHU-JHU1 (548-5481)
odyssey@jhu.edu

$
50% discount. Alumni status will be confirmed.
$
80% discount. Status of university employment will be confirmed.
$
50% discount. Employment status of Spouse/Domestic Partner will be confirmed.
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