Sandra Kay Evans

Sandra Kay Evans is a Behavioral/Social Scientist at the RAND Corporation. She specializes in organizational research across healthcare and military contexts, focusing on topics such as change management, strategic management, human resource management, and innovation in organizational settings. Prior to joining RAND, she served as an assistant professor of communication at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. Dr. Evans holds a Ph.D. in Communication from the University of Southern California, a dual master’s degree in Global Communication from USC and the London School of Economics, and a B.Sc. in International Studies and Radio/Television/Film from Northwestern University.

Her research interests include organizational change, inter-organizational collaboration, and technology use in organizations. She employs mixed methods such as focus groups, interviews, content analysis, surveys, and social network analysis. Notable work includes studies on U.S. military readiness, Air Force recruitment strategies, and healthcare innovation, particularly in addressing opioid use disorders.

Evans has contributed to policy-relevant research for the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Space Force, addressing challenges like financial audit preparedness, data-centric warfare, and retention systems. Her recent studies emphasize strategic frameworks for military competition and the integration of technology in operational decision-making.

In her career, she has advised on organizational performance measurement and evaluation, including the effectiveness of federally funded research centers. While no formal awards are listed, her extensive publication record reflects a commitment to impactful applied research.