The University of Tennessee, Knoxville's Social Work Office of Research and Public Service (SWORPS) is proud to celebrate its 50th anniversary - marking half a century of leveraging research, technology, and human connection to improve the lives of Tennesseans.

Founded in the 1970s as the continuing education arm of the UT College of Social Work, SWORPS has evolved into a $33 million statewide center with nearly 200 employees across Tennessee and beyond. Today, it stands as the College's outreach arm, uniting three divisions - Applied Research and Evaluation, Technology and Development, and Field-Based Services - in advancing the wellbeing of children, families, and communities.

"Because of SWORPS, decision-makers across Tennessee have access to real-time data to improve programs and policies. Because of SWORPS, parents find employment and reunite with their children. Because of SWORPS, families are supported before crises happen," said Daryl Kennedy Chansuthus, Director of SWORPS. "Our past fifty years have been about building bridges - between research and practice, technology and people, universities and communities. The next fifty will be about strengthening those bridges to create lasting impact."

Anniversary Open House: Bridging Communities. Transforming Lives.
The Open House will showcase SWORPS' history, highlight innovative current projects, and invite guests to explore interactive exhibits that demonstrate how SWORPS connects research, technology, and direct service to transform lives. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy refreshments and meet SWORPS' teams to learn more about how SWORPS' work continues to shape public service in Tennessee.