Faculty News

Paula Allen-Meares Collegiate Professor of Social Work Linda Chatters and colleagues from the U-M School of Public Health recently wrote an op-ed for Bridge. "We urge the State of Michigan to recognize the role economic disinvestment and institutional racism have played in heightening the risk of COVID-19 infection."

Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Howard V. Brabson Collegiate Professor Joseph Himle and Assistant Professor Addie Weaver, research “A systematic review of rural-specific barriers to medication treatment for opioid use disorder in the United States” is referenced in The Atlantic's “America’s Other Epidemic - A new approach to fighting the opioid crisis as it quietly rages on.” The drug-overdose epidemic has already killed 800,000 Americans—more than have died from AIDS—but the federal government has yet to provide adequate solutions, let alone a level of funding that could stem the crisis.

Associate Professor Terri Friedline discusses financial system reform and consumer protections to ensure that people and communities have access to safe and affordable financial products and services during the Coronavirus Pandemic.

The Michigan COVID-19 Pandemic Resource Guide, published by U-M Poverty Solutions aims to make sure the people who would benefit most from these policy changes are able to take advantage of them.

“The guide demonstrates Poverty Solutions’ commitment to action-based research that is responsive to community needs,” said Kristin Seefeldt, Poverty Solutions associate faculty director and an associate professor of social work and public policy.

Professor Luke Shaefer is quoted in a New York Times article detailing how low-income families often bear the brunt of the pain in natural disasters and large-scale emergencies. “They tend to be the first hit when things go wrong and then also to take the longest time to recover.”

Where are the nation’s most disadvantaged communities? With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Professor Luke Shaefer, a team of researchers from U-M Poverty Solutions and Princeton University explored this question and developed an Index of Deep Disadvantage to identify and better understand America’s most disadvantaged communities. By identifying communities of deep disadvantage can help direct resources where they’re most needed.

Professor Brad Zerbrack’s research was cited in the New York Times, “When the Teenager or Young Adult Has Cancer.” His research reviews psychosocial challenges, support interventions and makes recommendations for young adults with cancer.

Professor Joe Ryan presented his findings on how data can drive policy changes and improve outcomes for vulnerable children and families at the Wolverine Caucus.  The Wolverine Caucus is a forum held in the state capital where alumni, policymakers, and the public can hear from U-M faculty experts and engage discussions on topics that impact society.