Celebrating our dynamic journey over the past five years, the Institute for Social Transformation stands as a critical intellectual and social hub, passionately addressing today’s most pressing issues. Through a myriad of impactful initiatives, we are fostering groundbreaking interdisciplinary programs and events that reshape the narrative of what it means to fight for social justice. See how we are deepening our connection with our community, validating the impactful network structures we’ve built, and setting a robust foundation for the exciting journey ahead as reflect on five years of transformation.
Our Mission
Rooted in the Social Sciences Division at UC Santa Cruz, the institute supports innovative scholarship that changes the world. The institute is a critical intellectual and social hub, connecting scholars across UC Santa Cruz and partners beyond the University, developing research-based solutions to urgent problems in the world.
Solidarity Economics Series: Public Health in the Monterey Bay Area
The institute’s joint project, Solidarity Economics, has released a report focused on the intersection between public health and building a more inclusive economy. The report highlights the ways the status quo of health inequality undermines economic prosperity, resulting in worse health and economic outcomes. These inequalities disproportionately affect the well-being and prosperity of racial minority groups and low-income communities. The report recommends improving public health by promoting healthy communities, rather than just treating illness.
Building Belonging: Undergraduate Research Showcase
The Institute for Social Transformation hosted an end-of-year celebration and student showcase event to honor the work that has been accomplished in the Building Belonging program. The program is designed to foster student success, increase engagement, and build a greater sense of belonging for under-represented undergraduate students through faculty mentored service-learning and research projects.