Credit: The University of Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH (PTTP) — Ryan Schindler, a student researcher affiliated with the Social Change
Research Hub, part of the Fredericks Honors College at the University of Pittsburgh, is leading a
collaborative effort with the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work and the University
School of Law.
Working alongside Professor Ron Idoko and Dr. Gabby MH Yearwood, they are engaged in a
project in partnership with the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent,
focused on advancing racial equity resources.
“Our journey began at the University of Pittsburgh, where we documented the resources
available,” Schindler explained. “Our task was to construct a comprehensive database through
extensive research, scouring websites, and gathering data. We utilized a Qualtrics form, aligning
it with components of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and our racial equity
consciousness.”
Schindler’s role in the project involved gathering data not only from the University of Pittsburgh
but also from the broader Pittsburgh area. In the coming weeks, Schindler and the team will
travel to Geneva, Switzerland, where they will present their findings at a conference hosted by
the Permanent Forum. Additionally, they are diligently working on drafting a manuscript to
further communicate their research and insights.
“What drew me to this project was the prospect of meaningful change, which often requires a
multidisciplinary approach,” Schindler reflected. Schindler’s involvement exemplifies the
university’s commitment to fostering collaborative efforts aimed at addressing pressing societal
issues.