Mike L. Pelz, PhD

Founder / Director

Mike brings 15+  years of expertise in research methods, data analysis, and applied statistical insights on public opinion, religion, and public policy. After over 10 years as a political science professor and scholar, he is translating his research and analytical expertise to directly impact mission-driven organizations.

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Why the pivot?

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Mike is a big believer in the difference nonprofits can make in their communities and he sees the need for smarter, more data-driven approaches for these organization to thrive. 

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The Tricycle Story

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Mike's wife has over a decade of experience in arts nonprofits. He saw first-hand the need for more data-informed strategies in her work and like any good partner, he wanted to help. Tricycle Analytics was born. 

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He currently works at the West Michigan Partnership for Children (WMPC) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In this role, he is the Data Analytics Lead and performs a variety of quantitative analyses and audits to assess the performance of the foster care system in Kent County, Michigan. He is also a data consultant for several policy evaluation firms nationwide including Research and Evaluation Associates in Grand Rapids, Mi and Behavioral Science Research Institute in Miami, FL.  He holds a MA and PhD in political science from the University of Missouri-Columbia.