Social Mobility Research and Action Division

The Social Mobility Research and Action Division advances community-centered inquiry into the conditions that support or constrain the mobility of Black boys and men in urban communities. Its signature approach, Brother Squares, uses culturally responsive research and learning spaces to engage participants as partners in identifying institutional barriers, community strengths, trusted supports, and pathways to academic, career, and economic opportunity. Through qualitative inquiry and participant feedback, the Center seeks to generate actionable knowledge that may inform research, policy, and practice while supporting future partnerships among schools, higher education institutions, community organizations, and workforce partners. The initiative was developed from research led by RaQuaam Smith, Ph.D., focused on understanding Black men’s experiences with social mobility and using their knowledge to support more transparent, affirming, and responsive opportunity pathways.

Contact RaQuaam Smith, PhD at rsmit328@charlotte.edu for questions and inquiries.