Colleges merge with collaborative effort to build healthy communities

September 14, 2021 (Volume 45, Number 2)
Article by Brian Vernellis

Headshot of Sherril Soman

Sherril Soman, dean of the College of Education and Community Innovation

 

Prior to the 2021-2022 academic year, the College of Education and College of Community and Public Service merged to create the College of Education and Community Innovation.

The move united departments focused on education, social work, criminology, philanthropy and legal studies with hospitality, health, nonprofit, and public management and policy. 

The collaborative effort across disciplines will help build healthy communities, promote equity and social responsibility, and provide quality research and data toward that goal.

“While the college was created to support administrative efficiencies, we see opportunities for interdisciplinary synergies because of our shared focus on community engagement, social justice, and our support for societal structures,” said Sherril Soman, dean of CECI.

About 4,000 students are enrolled in CECI majors in eight undergraduate and 12 graduate programs.

“Through our programs, we educate students to become professionals within fields in which a broader understanding of the larger community remains essential,” said Soman.

 

Categories

Across Campus

This article was last edited on September 14, 2021 at 9:0 a.m.

Related Articles

CECI faculty present 'quick talks' on their scholarship

The 5-minute presentations highlighted faculty expertise and sparked cross-unit connections.

December 9, 2025 (Volume 49, Number 8)
Article by Rita Cooper

Rainbow Resource Center renaming honors Milt Ford’s legacy, celebrates the future

A painting of Ford by his son was also unveiled at the event.

December 9, 2025 (Volume 49, Number 8)
Article by Julianna Schrier

Scholarship, teaching, service will be recognized at annual Faculty Awards Convocation

University Awards for Excellence and awards from two departments will be presented on February 10 on the City Campus.

December 9, 2025 (Volume 49, Number 8)