Capstones

The capstone projects in the YIP Fellowship represent the culmination of an intensive eight-week program, embodying the essence of inquiry-driven learning. These projects, crafted by fellows at the program's conclusion, are a testament to their intellectual growth and understanding of complex policy issues. Each capstone is a unique reflection of the skills and insights gained, demonstrating a synthesis of research, analysis, and innovative thinking. Serving as both a personal and academic milestone, these capstones highlight the fellows' readiness to engage with real-world challenges, marking a significant step in their journey as emerging policy leaders.

See Capstones

Capstones may reflect individual viewpoints and do not represent YIP's nonpartisan stance.

All Fellowship Capstones

A Counter-Proxy Framework for the Middle East

Capstones Fall 2025

Iran has long been a thorn in the American side, counteracting U.S. influence and allies throughout the Middle East. In the last fifty years, such belligerence has notably increased, perpetuated through various proxies across Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. This brief will cover how Iran is attempting to uproot America’s geopolitical foundation in the Middle East and how this outcome can be prevented through targeted policy solutions.

The Color of Unemployment: How Policy and Prejudice Push Black Women Out of the Workforce

Capstones Fall 2025

This policy brief examines the escalating unemployment crisis among Black women, arguing that recent federal policies and a political climate hostile to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (D.E.I.) initiatives worsen systemic discrimination. The analysis shows how misapplied government efficiency measures and enduring misogynoir create an inequitable environment where Black women are disproportionately laid off and face barriers to job security.

Coastal Erosion within Louisiana

Capstones Fall 2025

This policy brief addresses the presence of coastal erosion, a history of coastal erosion, industries affected by coastal erosion, tried policy, and options for future policy. By addressing coastal erosion and proposing resilience plans, opportunities can be presented within Louisiana legislation to address its land loss.

Balancing Power and Principle: An analysis of U.S. involvement in the Israel-Palestine Conflict and Potential Reform Pathways

Capstones Fall 2025

For decades, the U.S. has functioned as Israel’s most reliable patron, especially in the Israel-Palestine conflict, extending both diplomatic loyalty and billions in military aid. However, recent shifts in the 2023 response to the war have reignited extensive scrutiny on whether U.S. intervention is compatible with international legal frameworks and humanitarian principles. Taking into consideration the U.S.’s strategic justifications for their steadfast alliance, this brief examines whether the U.S. achieves equilibrium in strategic interests and moral considerations or completely sacrifices its ethos in international law.

Drug Abuse in Los Angeles

Capstones Fall 2025

This brief examines the factors and major issues regarding drug abuse in Los Angeles, CA.

The $14.7 Billion Question: Who’s Responsible for New Jersey's Power Crisis?

Energy lies at the core of every functioning society, yet today’s world faces mounting challenges as demand accelerates due to technological advancements while supply lags. Ratepayers experience rising costs largely due to the rising demand for AI data centers. Through policy harnessing the price stabilization effect of clean energy and more robust consumer protection plans, the mismatch can be amended.

Structural Solutions for an Equitable Coffee Value Chain

This brief analyzes power imbalances in the global coffee trade that leave smallholder farmers in poverty while multinational corporations and certifying bodies capture most of the value. It argues that market-driven practices and weak regulation undermine the effectiveness of certifications and price supports. The brief proposes decentralizing certification, enforcing living-income due diligence, and strengthening transparency and stakeholder governance to promote equity and sustainability in the coffee sector.

Stop Stalking and Domestic Violence

This brief addresses the horrible issue of stalking and intimate partner violence in the United States. It will discuss its relevance and a way to hopefully prevent these crimes from occurring.

Strengthening Mental Health Resources in School Systems

The rise in mental health issues among students has become an alarming number. This policy brief will examine the increasing lack of adequate resources our school systems are equipped with. It offers a planned solution on how schools can allocate funds to better their services towards student and faculty. This initiative aims to help everyone despite economic gaps and districts.

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All Fellowship Capstones

A Counter-Proxy Framework for the Middle East

The Color of Unemployment: How Policy and Prejudice Push Black Women Out of the Workforce

Coastal Erosion within Louisiana

Balancing Power and Principle: An analysis of U.S. involvement in the Israel-Palestine Conflict and Potential Reform Pathways

Drug Abuse in Los Angeles

The $14.7 Billion Question: Who’s Responsible for New Jersey's Power Crisis?

Structural Solutions for an Equitable Coffee Value Chain

Stop Stalking and Domestic Violence

Strengthening Mental Health Resources in School Systems