Social Justice and Advocacy

Building on Roosevelt University’s core values, historical origins, and best practices, the Office for Social Justice and Advocacy (SJA) will mobilize creative approaches to advise, support, and foster advocacy toward a cultural shift essential to social justice and the experiences of our community.

Our History

75 years ago, Roosevelt University was born when a visionary leader and 62 faculty members had the guts to go against the norms of exclusion in favor of inclusion. They went against the discriminatory practices of higher education in 1945. When asked to limit access because of race, religion and gender, they simply said, “We don’t count that way.” Our history is grounded in courage, acceptance and a commitment to social justice.

Our Present

Roosevelt’s institutional culture, mission, and current strategic plan stem from this commitment to social justice core values on which the university was founded.  The university has championed social and racial justice since its beginnings and continues in this spirit today.  Roosevelt’s view of justice is based in a belief that fairness, honesty, integrity, equity, and critical agency should resonate throughout every institution within a civil society.

Related News

Social justice and advocacy are constant themes throughout everything that happens at Roosevelt.  Browse our recent news stories for a glimpse into social justice and advocacy in action at the University.

Social Justice & Advocacy Day 2026

At Roosevelt University, social justice is not an abstract concept. It is a lived commitment rooted in dialogue, action and community partnerships.

Alexandria Kirksey

The first-generation college student learned to navigate college life through Roosevelt's support system and her own self-determination.

Speaker addresses the audience from a podium as another person sits on stage listening

Guest speakers Sally Swarthout Wolf and Nancy Michaels discussed how the practice encourages community healing and reduces repeat offenses.

If you witness or experience any bias and/or discrimination, please report it here

All community members of Roosevelt University are entitled to dignity, equity, and respect.

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Social Justice and Advocacy