The UMSSW Institute for Innovation and Implementation has officially rebranded as the UMSSW Ruth Young Social Impact Institute. This new name reflects the Institute’s evolving work and alignment with the School of Social Work’s vision to strengthen communities and improve lives locally, nationally, and globally. Through partnerships with public agencies, practitioners, researchers, and communities, the Institute advances child- and family-serving systems through research, implementation support, workforce development, policy collaboration, and evaluation.
The name honors Dr. Ruth H. Young, Dean of the School of Social Work from 1977–1988, whose leadership helped shape the School’s enduring commitment to public service, systems change, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Grounded in strong partnerships across Maryland, the Institute supports cross-system collaboration in child welfare, behavioral health, juvenile justice, education, and early childhood systems.
This rebrand enhances visibility, strengthens collaboration across the School and University, and creates clearer pathways for engagement. Learn more by visiting ssw.umaryland.edu/institute.