Our Firm
Nelson Research is a public opinion survey research firm based in Salem, Oregon. We specialize in public opinion polling for school districts, local governments, businesses, political candidates and trade associations. Nelson Research has been conducting public opinion research since 1980, making us 40-year veterans at what we do. Our decades of work in public opinion polling have allowed us to develop and refine a research process specifically tailored to help our clients achieve their desired outcomes, particularly at the ballot box. Our surveys provide our clients with clear, accurate and insightful information.
Our Team
The exceptional results that we achieve for our clients are driven by our devoted team.
J.L. Wilson, Principal
J.L. Wilson serves as Principal of Nelson Research. J.L joined the firm in 2014 with a 20-year history in public affairs including serving as Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for Associated Oregon Industries, the state’s largest and most influential business organization. Says Wilson, “For 22 years I have been a prolific consumer of polling and survey research services, and for 22 years, Nelson Research consistently delivered a superior product.” Wilson leads Nelson Research business and works with clients on survey development, project management and presentation of results.
Alicia Givens, Director of Operations
As Field Operations Manager, Alicia Givens ensures quality control over surveys and that all survey policies and procedures are adhered to for the duration of each project. She has overseen all of Nelson Research's fieldwork and quality control since 2005.
Hugh Ady, Research Manager
As Research Manager, Hugh Ady draws on years of public policy experience to generate strategic insights for Nelson Research clients. Before joining Nelson Research, he served as a member of the legislative team for the House Minority in the Oregon Legislature.
Melissa Martin, Advisor
Since 2001, Melissa Martin has conducted survey research for Nelson Research. She oversees questionnaire design, analysis and presentation of results to Nelson Research clients. Ms. Martin is a respected industry professional who regularly presents at statewide and national conferences on the importance of survey research, understanding demographic profiles, and how to use survey research data to deliver specific messages to specific demographics.