Guest of Honor:  Dr. Louise Shoemaker '47, '65, retired Dean of the School of Social Work (School of Social Policy and Practice, SP2).     Click here for a brief bio of Dr. Shoemaker from the National Association of Social Workers.  Dr. Shoemaker has been an active and esteemed leader at the Christian Association since 1964, often serving on our Board of Directors.

The Christian Association at the University of Pennsylvania proudly announces the creation of the fund for the Open Mind Grant for Africa in honor of Dr. Louise Shoemaker (Penn ’47, ’65).  During her years as a social worker, educator, and dean of the Penn School of Social Work, Shoemaker demonstrated her passion for service and social justice, particularly for the people of Africa.  This newly created fund will award financial grants to undergraduates or social work students to pursue studies or projects that will further social justice in Africa and raise awareness of African issues.

“We are so pleased to announce the formation of this fund in honor of Louise,” said Executive Director Katherine Primus.  “Working on international social justice issues has been a focus of the Christian Association since its founding in 1891.  To couple that with this extraordinary woman who has worked for systemic change as well as having direct impact by opening her own home to Sudanese refugees inspires us in our efforts.”

The fund has been established to raise $100,000 to endow a yearly financial grant.  The grant will help to generate interest among students, and those in the community, about African social justice issues in a variety of ways.  For example students may wish to travel to Africa and then share their experiences upon their return.  In that way knowledge of the needs and potential of Africa will grow. A kick-off reception was held on May 30, 2008 at the LGBT Center on Penn’s campus.  To make a donation to the fund  please visit  Open Mind Fund for Africa .