Laney Graduate School Announces Dr. Claire Bolton as Director of the Master’s in Development Practice Program

Headshot of Claire Bolton with text "Director Master's in Development Practice"

The Laney Graduate School is pleased to announce the appointment of Claire Bolton as the new Director of the Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) program, effective Feb. 2, 2026. Dean Kimberly Jacob Arriola will serve as Interim Director from January 5–30 to ensure continuity and program support during the transition.

Dr. Bolton comes to Emory with an extensive record of leadership in international and community development. As Associate Director of the Center on Human Trafficking Research & Outreach at the University of Georgia, she has overseen more than $31 million in globally funded development programs, leading multi-country collaborations focused on systems strengthening, capacity building, and policy advancement across Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.

Her work has involved partnership-building at the highest levels, including ministries, regional councils, and international agencies.

With a PhD in Geography and a professional background that integrates economics, community development, and interdisciplinary teaching, Bolton brings a scholarly lens informed by on-the-ground practitioner experience. She has taught human geography, urban development, and community-engaged courses, and also co-founded Freedom University, an initiative supporting undocumented youth in accessing higher education and leadership development.

Bolton’s leadership vision is closely aligned with the core responsibilities and priorities outlined for the Program Director role, including:

  • guiding the academic and administrative strategy of the MDP program
  • strengthening partnerships across Emory and with global development organizations
  • advancing inclusive excellence and fostering a supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff
  • supporting recruitment, advising, and equitable admissions practices
  • enhancing field practicum and internship opportunities
  • promoting research that integrates science, policy, and practice

In her application, Bolton wrote that she is drawn to Emory’s MDP program because of its “holistic, practice-oriented approach” and its commitment to bridging theory and real-world engagement through “a deep, global network of partnerships.” She emphasized the importance of connecting alumni and practitioners to student learning and ensuring curriculum responsiveness to evolving global development priorities.

Dean Arriola shared, “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Bolton to the Laney Graduate School. Her interdisciplinary expertise, global experience, and deep commitment to ethical and community-centered development make her an exceptional leader for the MDP program. I look forward to partnering with her as she advances the program’s mission and supports the next generation of development practitioners.”

The Laney Graduate School extends a warm welcome to Dr. Bolton and looks forward to the meaningful contributions she will bring to the Emory community.