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    College of Social Work

    • Social Justice Innovation Initiative

    Since 2018, the College of Social Work has hosted the Social Justice Innovation Initiative (SJII).

    What is SJII?

    The Social Justice Innovation Initiative at the College of Social Work was initially made possible through a gift from longtime college supporter Susan Cooper, and it is sustained through individual gifts from various donors. The privately funded initiative offers a unique framework for understanding many of society’s most pressing issues around education, healthcare, and social justice. The initiative provides grants for students and faculty to creatively challenge social injustices in their communities.

    Help Fund SJII

  • Equity and Inclusion
  • DEI Advisory Committee and Fellows
  • Social Justice Innovation Initiative
  • Statement on Racism, Discrimination, and Harassment
    • social work students and faculty with Mayor Kincannon at the Homelessness & Housing Summit

    SJII Funded Projects

    The 2024-2025 Social Justice Innovation Initiative is underway.

    Realizing Years of Impact

    Thanks to a generous five-year donation from longtime College of Social Work supporter Susan Cooper, the SJII fund established a platform to effect change that has realized years of impact in the college, the university, within the Knoxville and Nashville communities, and throughout greater Tennessee.

    Getting Involved

    Support the Social Justice Innovation Initiative and help empower students and faculty to drive meaningful change in their communities. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to apply for grants.

    I am proud that the SJII partnership, envisioned seven years ago, continues to have an impact in Tennessee and beyond. The vision to provide members of the college with opportunities to make a difference has far exceeded my expectations.

    SUSAN COOPER
    SJII Donor