Data-Driven Transformation: Converse Students Partner with Strategic Spartanburg
Written by Amanda Mathis
Converse University is introducing a new Quantitative Consulting class in partnership with Strategic Spartanburg for the 2026 spring semester. This nonprofit research organization leverages data and evidence to improve the quality of life in Spartanburg County, fostering community pride and a sense of shared progress. Similarly, Converse University advances a culture of belonging and collaboration that ignites creativity, innovation, and transformation.
As members of this growing discipline, Data Science graduates are sought out by employers across a variety of fields who are actively seeking leaders with data science and analytical skills to transform consumer data into strategic insights and drive decision-making. Converse University’s Data Science program prepares students to enter the modern workforce with a data-driven mindset, equipping them with skills that lead to meaningful careers and enable them to serve as effective leaders within their communities.
“This course helps bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce by providing a hands-on, real-world experience with clear goals and a clear impact on our Spartanburg community.”
Dr. Amanda Mangum
“This is a great experience for our students. This course helps bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce by providing a hands-on, real-world experience with clear goals and a clear impact on our Spartanburg community,” said Dr. Amanda Mangum, Associate Professor of Mathematics and Data Science at Converse.
Mangum’s students will work on real data science projects that affect positive change in our Spartanburg community. Prior clients for Converse’s Quantitative Consulting course include Bank of America and The Upstate Family Resource Center.
The first two iterations of this course were made possible through a grant from the Preparation for Industrial Careers in Mathematical Sciences (PIC Math) program, which enables students to engage in meaningful work while providing data-driven solutions for nonprofits like Strategic Spartanburg.
“I am pleased to begin this partnership, and I look forward to seeing the thoughtful, rigorous work this year’s cohort will contribute to our shared efforts to improve Spartanburg for all its residents.”
Strategic Spartanburg Executive Director Dr. Midas Hampton
“I am pleased to begin this partnership, and I look forward to seeing the thoughtful, rigorous work this year’s cohort will contribute to our shared efforts to improve Spartanburg for all its residents,” said Strategic Spartanburg Executive Director Dr. Midas Hampton. “The Quantitative Consulting course provides an essential opportunity for students to apply analytical skills to real community challenges while gaining a deeper understanding of the people and conditions behind the data.”
Converse’s Data Science program teaches students to gain meaningful insights from data and communicate them effectively to company and community members. Over several weeks during the semester, students will review and analyze data, and by the end of the course, the cohorts will present their findings, including any recommendations, to Strategic Spartanburg staff.