Suzanne Pritzker

Professor Suzanne Pritzker is a distinguished academic collaborating on research in the fields of youth civic engagement, service-learning, political social work, and policy education. She serves as an Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the Graduate College of Social Work at the University of Houston. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Virginia in 1996, followed by a Master of Education in Social Foundations of Education from the same institution in 1997. She further advanced her expertise by earning a Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2003 and a Doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis in 2009. Professor Pritzker's research is deeply rooted in the empowerment of youth through civic engagement and the integration of service-learning into educational frameworks. Her work emphasizes the importance of political social work and policy education, aiming to equip future social workers with the tools necessary to influence and shape public policy effectively. Her dedication to these areas has been recognized through numerous accolades, including the prestigious Outstanding Individual in Academia Award from the Congressional Research Institute for Social Work and Policy in 2018. In her role at the University of Houston, Professor Pritzker is committed to fostering an academic environment that encourages critical thinking and active participation in social justice issues. She is passionate about mentoring students and guiding them to become leaders in the field of social work. Her innovative approach to teaching and research has made significant contributions to the understanding and practice of social work education. Beyond her academic responsibilities, Professor Pritzker is actively involved in various professional organizations and initiatives that promote civic engagement and policy advocacy. Her work has been instrumental in developing curricula that integrate service-learning and political social work, providing students with practical experiences that complement their academic studies. Professor Pritzker's contributions to the field are not only evident in her research and teaching but also in her commitment to community service and policy reform. Her efforts continue to inspire students and colleagues alike, making her a respected figure in the realm of social work education. Her vision for a more engaged and informed society drives her ongoing research and advocacy efforts, ensuring that her impact extends beyond the classroom and into the broader community.