Office of Global Activities

Globalization

. . . has become one of the dominant forces impacting the socioeconomic structures and processes that shape what forms of justice and well-being can or cannot be realized domestically and abroad for all people. In a world increasingly globalized, movements of people across borders often create privilege, oppression, and illegality conditions because nation–state laws and citizenship regulations are frequently unfitted to new realities. In order to effectively work with increasingly diverse and globalized populations and communities, the social work profession is faced with the challenge of creating a specific vision and defining an agenda for social work practice in a global context.

—School of Social Work International Task Force, 2003

In order to pursue our goals of promoting social work in a global context, we formalized the establishment of the Office of Global Activities at the School of Social Work.

—Paula Allen-Meares, Dean
Norma Radin Collegiate Professor of Social Work and Professor of Education

Purpose

The University of Michigan School of Social Work (U-M SSW) is pleased to announce a new Office of Global Activities. The purpose of the office is to promote social work in a global context, with the following agenda:

  • To promote the U-M SSW’s leadership role in global social work education and research.
  • To increase students’ competencies in global social work practice.
  • To foster an environment conducive to global social work education and research.

Foundations for Globalization

The University of Michigan has a long and respected history of involvement in global research and education. The U-M SSW has played an integral role in the university’s work through its ongoing collaboration with individuals and institutions from around the world. Past activities have included international collaborative research projects, faculty and student visits, and curriculum development. International students meet for mutual support and to promote a global understanding of social work.

Creating a Vision for the Future

In the winter of 2003, the school constituted an International Task Force consisting of faculty, students, and staff. The group was charged with developing a vision and comprehensive agenda for “internationalizing” U-M SSW’s activities. The task force put forth the agenda and plans to promote social work in a global context, emphasizing principles of co-learning and partnership—not a western-centered, top-down approach. The task force addressed issues of research, curriculum, and the school’s environment.

The Office of Global Activities, in collaboration with the school as a whole, is developing activities and programs based on this agenda. This activity will serve to enhance the U-M SSW’s mission of promoting a better society though individual and social change.

Office of Global Activities
Faculty and Staff
Dr. Frank Zinn, Director
Ziehyun Huh, Program Manager

ssw.oga@umich.edu
phone: 734-936-1964
fax: 734-763-3372

Office of Global Activities
School of Social Work, Room 3753
University of Michigan
1080 S. University
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1106