The Center on Race and Social Problems at the University of Pittsburgh

Abstract

In 2002, the School of Social Work at the University of Pittsburgh established the Center on Race and Social Problems (CRSP). CRSP, which is the first race research center to be housed in a school of social work, has six foci: economic disparities; educational disparities; interracial group relations; mental health; youth, families, and elderly; and criminal justice and substance abuse. The main activities are promoting research, mentoring young scholars, and disseminating knowledge. CRSP fosters research by organizing research advisory panels, funding pilot studies, and assisting with applications for outside funding. The center mentors young scholars through postdoctoral fellowships and guidance by senior faculty. The center disseminates knowledge through a lecture series, conferences, summer institutes, courses, and academic publications.