Table 2 Illustrative quotations to demonstrate translational impacts

▪ Scholars trained in translational research methods are engaged in collaborative partnership with various community health organizations

▪ People with the skills to conduct translational research and implementation are involved with local organizational programming

The impact on the staff I think was that I think it highlighted for them a little bit more of where the emphasis should be and, again, outside of just what’s covered by the evidence-based models because right now there is the more evidence-based prevention model that really deals with prescription meds as a specific issue. So I think it clarified a bit more what things we can do in the short term to help to actually manage that. (Cohort #1 Scholar/Community Mentor)

Just like the ability to conduct research, kind of like the technical aspects of it as well. That’s not easy and not everyone knows how to do it or knows who to contact or knows the pieces of how research is implemented. So, the Institute really helped me in understanding that. (Cohort #1 Scholar)

▪ Emphasis on real-world application of evidence is fostered

I just think that it’s a way of living, it’s a way of being, it’s a way of doing things, whether it’s in your place of employment or it’s interacting with people. My eyes are much more open to many of these social issues, not just in criminology and crime, but many of the social issues that are plaguing our society now. I have just like a much better understanding of that information and where to go and get good quality research on that. Definitely, it’s shaped the way that I think of the world. (Cohort #1 Scholar)

It’s made me think about working with the community more. I’m a community girl. I come from the community and it’s made me realize like, “Hey, you know what, if it’s going to be relevant at all to life, it needs to come from the community.” I don’t want my research projects to come from my brain and from the ivory tower anymore. I want them to be a communication with people who actually could benefit. (Cohort #2 Scholar)

Anywhere we can find meaningful data to understand how our programs are used and how we can help share what we think are best practices. I just think it continues to be a good benefit for both us and for the university. (Community Mentor)