AREAS OF RESEARCH

Leading-edge research fuels SP2’s passionate pursuit of social good

Bridging data-informed social policy and evidence-based social work practice, SP2’s research is fueled by leading-edge faculty designing innovative solutions to complex social problems. This important work advances SP2’s passionate pursuit of social innovation, social impact, and social good.

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Professor Desmond Patton in his office

Centering joy in AI development and implementation

PIK Professor Desmond Upton Patton and collaborators introduce a joy-informed framework designed to initiate conversations among engineers, designers, and researchers.

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Ram Cnaan and Chao Guo on stage at the ARNOVA conference awards ceremony

SP2 faculty, students, and alumni recognized at ARNOVA 2025 Annual Conference

SP2 celebrates the achievements of its faculty, students, and alumni recognized at the 2025 Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA) Annual Conference, held November 20 – 23 in Indianapolis, IN.

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Headshot of Desmond Patton on Penn's campus

SP2’s Dr. Desmond Patton named to AASWSW Class of 2026

Dr. Desmond Upton Patton has been selected to join the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare’s Class of 2026 Fellows.