Who We Are

CTA’s Origins

CTA grew out of two gaps that CTA directors Jessica, Rachel and Adam identified. 
 
First, as students, the directors individually conducted a great deal of field research in conflict-affected communities.  They each noted the tremendous power of field research in identifying and “speaking” for voices that usually go unheard.  At the same time, they noted that the power of this academic tool is not always harnessed to help the communities in which the research is conducted. 

Based on this and their belief in the untapped power of field research in creating dialogue and ensuring greater access to the negotiation over the design and shape of a transitional justice process, in 2007, the team applied for the Davis Foundation’s 100 Projects for Peace grant.  Their application was selected as one of one hundred university student applications to receive a $10,000 grant.  This grant jumpstarted the founding of their organization and first project, The Mato Oput Project in Northern Uganda. Since then, CTA's work has expanded beyond the scope of The Mato Oput Project to use many other research and multimedia tools.  However, unlocking the power of academic tools remains central to CTA’s current approach.

About the Founders

Jessica Anderson specializes in field research and research management within peace and conflict studies, gender studies, and forced migration.  She has conducted field research in Ghana, South Africa, and Uganda. Her bachelor degree is in International Relations from Tufts University. Jessica currently lives and works in South Africa, where she is completing her master of arts degree in Forced Migration.

Rachel Bergenfield specializes in monitoring and evaluation and project management within the peacebuilding and governance sectors. She has conducted fieldwork on topics related to poverty, human rights, conflict and transitional justice in Nigeria, Cameroon, Uganda, and India. Her bachelor degree is in International Relations from Tufts University. Rachel is currently based in Washington D.C.

Adam Levy holds a bachelor degree in both International Relations and Peace and Justice Studies from Tufts University, magna cum laude.  He has conducted original research in areas related to forced migration, international law, peace processes and negotiations, as well as the impact of humanitarian organizations on confliction resolution and reconstruction. His research has taken him to various conflict-affected regions, such as Kosovo, Nepal, Colombia, the United States/Mexico border, Nicaragua, and the Mississippi Delta. Adam currently works for the Project for Justice in Times of Transition, based in Boston, MA.