World of Work
Professor Sheila “Shelley” Akabas has made a career out of studying the intersection of the personal and the professional. Now, more than ever, employers, unions, government agencies, and think tanks are interested in her research into conditions that affect the work/life balance and increase or interfere with a healthy, productive workforce.
In 1969, Dr. Akabas was one of the founders of the School of Social Work’s Workplace Center, a nationally recognized center for innovation and best practices related to work. An exemplary teacher and researcher, she has been instrumental in developing the social worker’s role in the workplace through her placement of CUSSW alumni in influential positions in corporations, labor unions, nonprofit organizations, and government.
In February 2010, Dr. Akabas handed the reins of the Workplace Center over to Dr. Lauren Gates, a senior research scientist at the School with whom she has collaborated for more than 20 years. Dr. Akabas remains as director emeritus and will continue to be engaged in the center’s important initiatives. She will also continue as chair of the Social Enterprise Administration method of practice and the World of Work field of practice. In this capacity, she mentors students in workforce management issues, including barriers to employment; employee assistance programs, and other services for workers and their dependents; collective bargaining; workplace discrimination and equal opportunity; and legislation related to work and social welfare.
Former student Philip Berry ’75MS recalls her dedication to social work management. “She has kept the field of social work management moving ahead, always marching towards a more equitable and sustainable workplace, particularly for individuals with disabilities,” he said.
A lifelong champion of social justice in the workplace, Dr. Akabas was recently presented with the Mark Moses Distinguished Fellowship Award from the National Network for Social Work Managers for her invaluable contributions to the field.