School of Social Work News

Associate Professor Robert Ortega was appointed as the University Faculty Ombuds for the 2018-2019 academic year. The Faculty Ombuds provides an informal, neutral and confidential environment for resolution of disputes to U-M faculty with concerns related to their faculty roles. Robert's social work experience and the respect he has garnered from his peers will be an asset to the Office of the Ombuds.

Postdoctoral Fellow Shanna Kattari accepted a courtesy joint appointment in the department of Women's Studies in the College of Literature, Sciences and Arts.  

Research Associate Brandy Sinco helped to organize the Advanced Analytics track at the annual Michigan SAS Users Conference.

LEO Lecturer Katie Lopez was featured in International Educator magazine for her collaborative work to develop the Resilient Traveling website as well as a Massive Open Online Course designed to prepare students for local, national and international engagement experiences.

Associate Professor Xiaoling Xiang received funding from U-M - Older Americans Independence Center Research Education Core for her project entitled "Acceptability of home care worker-supported, technology-based treatment for late-life depression in non-skilled home care." This project probes whether it is feasible to implement internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy in non-skilled home care. 
 

Associate Professor Luke Shaefer was appointed to the commission on Community Action and Economic Opportunity by Governor Rick Snyder. The 12-member commission is charged with reducing the causes, conditions and effects of poverty and promoting social and economic opportunities that foster self-sufficiency for low-income people.

Associate Professor Luke Shaefer was quoted in the Washington Post article, "An explosive U.N. report shows America's safety net was failing before Trump's election."

Rick Rodems successfully defended his dissertation entitled "Hidden Hardship: Three Essays on Poverty and Material Welfare in the United States."  His committee consisted of Luke Shaefer, Fabian Pfeffer (co-chairs), Sandra Danziger and Greta Krippner. Rodems has accepted a postdoctoral fellowship at U-M Poverty Solutions.