January 16, 2024

Booth named 2024 SSWR Fellow


Associate Dean for Research Jaime Booth was named a 2024 SSWR Fellow this weekend at the SSWR annual conference in Washington DC. The Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) Fellows are members who have served with distinction to advance the mission of the Society — to advance, disseminate, and translate research that addresses issues of social work practice and policy and promotes a diverse, equitable and just society. Read more about the SSWR Fellows.

Dr. Yodit Betru publishes new book


Be an agent of positive change with a rewarding career in social work


Social workers empower individuals, families, groups, and communities to build a more just and equitable world. By providing support, advocacy, and a wide range of services, social workers not only enhance the well-being of those they serve but also contribute to the broader goal of building a society where everyone has an opportunity to thrive. Becoming a Social Worker for Dummies will introduce you to this empowering profession and teach you about the fulfilling career paths that focus on improving community and society. Learn what skills you need to be prepared to work in the field, and discover how you can enter a role that allows you to make a positive difference working with individuals, groups, organizations, systems, and even whole countries. 

• Embark on a career that's satisfying, engaging, and financially sound 

• Read about the different kinds of social work jobs available and pick the right path for you 

• Learn how social work differs from other helping professions and bust common myths 

• Get started on your journey toward working for equity and justice in your community 

This clear, simple Dummies guide is for anyone who wants to learn more about the social work profession and its many sectors. Discover a career path where you can make a difference almost anywhere. 


Read more and order the book here.


JCP Special Issue on Collaborations in Community-Engaged Research 


Associate Professor Mary Ohmer, Editor for the Journal of Community Practice, led a team of special issue editors over the last year on a special issue on “Collaborations in Community-Engaged Research” that was recently published.


Link to the Editorial.


Two articles were written by Pitt School of Social Work Faculty:



Institute students open up on film about journey to understand systemic racism 


Examples of disconcerting incidents fueled by racial intolerance can be easily found: Looking out the window, walking down the street, or via a ubiquitous flow of news and social media. But when any race-based public argument, court decision, shooting or standoff with law enforcement is resolved — or at least exits the media cycle — the underlying causes usually remain unaddressed.


Few recognize this as acutely as Ron Idoko, who, as associate director of Pitt’s Center on Race and Social Problems, is continuing a long-fought mission to scrutinize racism beyond the blaring headlines and enticing news links. Read more in the University Times.

Healing Overflow with Dr. Toy - SEASON 2 COMING SOON 


We are excited to announce that Healing Overflow with Dr. Toy will be launching its second season next week! Thank you to everyone who has streamed the podcast and shown their support!


Check out Dr. Toy's brief promo video for Season 2 of her podcast!


Stream all episodes here!

RECI Film Premier


Join us for the grand premiere of "Illuminating the Vaccine for Racism" this January 25, 2024! The film highlights the groundbreaking Racial Equity Consciousness Institute (RECI) here at the University of Pittsburgh, including reflections from the University community members who have participated in RECI!


Details: The evening will consist of a film screening, panel discussion with Ron Idoko and a variety of changemakers and a catered reception!


Date: January 25, 2024

Time: 5:45-8 pm EST

Location: Frick Fine Arts Building (650 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15260)


REGISTER HERE.

Late Pittsburgh activists honored with Spirit of King Awards ahead of MLK Day


In the early 1970s, Pitt School of Social Work alumnus James F. Henry Jr. served as the director of the Kingsley Association in East Liberty, the first step in what would become a lifelong career in Pittsburgh social services and activism. Last week he was honored with the 2024 Spirit of King Award. Read more.

NEW CRSPConnect Newsletter


Read the latest news and events from the Center on Race and Social Problems.

Upcoming Events
  • January 19, 2024: Leah Jacobs: Assessing Racial Bias in Mobile Crisis Services: RISE-MH Works in Progress. 12-1pm. Zoom link


  • January 19, 2024: CRSP Event: Affirmative Action and Racial Equity: Navigating the Complex Political Landscape Following the Supreme Court Decision. 1-2:30. 2017 Cathedral of Learning.


  • January 23, 2024: MSW Virtual Information Session. 6-7:15pm. RSVP here.


  • January 25, 2024: RECI Film Premier. 5:45-8pm. Frick Fine Arts Building. Register here.


  • January 29, 2024: Research Break: SSWR Repurposed. More details TBD.




For a complete listing of upcoming events please visit the

Pitt School of Social Work website

Please share our e-blast with your contacts and send any story ideas to shm87@pitt.edu.
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