Educating students for engaged citizenship.
Addressing local problems from a global perspective.
Learning from our past to inform our future.
Melissa Lavitt, College of Social Sciences & Public Affairs Dean
We take seriously our mission to facilitate engagement – not only in community service and outreach, but in politics and policy. We recognize the connection between the individual and larger systems, and strive to demystify the process of informed advocacy. Our success depends on instilling in each of our graduates the unfaltering belief that democracy requires their determined commitment and active involvement.
The College of Social Sciences and Public Affairs educates and prepares students for jobs and circumstances yet unforeseen. The task is daunting. Our most complex problems are on the horizon. We may not know exactly what the issues are, but we do know some of their attributes: problems are interconnected and multifaceted in ways unimagined; solutions require input from a broad spectrum of society’s members; and, understanding how the past informs the present is imperative. For example, what is the connection between our physical environment and social conditions? Where and how should we direct resources to ensure sustainable and productive communities? In what ways do global issues impact local society? How will our solutions address new and emerging groups in society?
Social scientists are skilled at asking questions, challenging assumptions, and broadening the perspectives for envisioning the future and deciphering our past. Whether you are interested in improving local communities, helping at-risk youth, or preserving the cultural legacy of our diverse world, we welcome you. Our faculty are rigorous scholars who value their time in the classroom to inspire the next generation of anthropologists, historians and psychologists. Students and faculty work together in meaningful ways to inform practice and guide policy in law enforcement, social work and public administration. Finally, a background in communication, sociology or political science provides a solid foundation for multiple professions and jobs.
I encourage you to learn more about us. Look at our courses, and read about our programs and faculty. My guess is that you will discover why I love my job! SSPA is home to a remarkable group of faculty, staff and students who inspire discovery and commitment to learning. Feel free to contact me or any of our departments for further information.
Melissa Lavitt
Dean of the College of Social Sciences & Public Affairs