Innovative practice: Choreographing social change

To dance well requires rigorous discipline and creative improvisation. Mary Clare, professor of counseling psychology and director of the Graduate School of Education and Counseling’s Oregon Center for Inquiry and Social Innovation, taught dance and dances still--fitting for one who directs graduate school programs that push education and social transformation to address intractable issues through rigorous creativity.

Growing out of and grounded in the collaborative ideas and energy of graduate school faculty, students, staff, and alumni, the Oregon Center extends the school’s commitment to thoughtful inquiry and innovative practice. "The center gives thought to action and action to thought," says Clare, "by bringing together people with expertise and people directly affected by social problems. It serves as a convening authority for the hearts and minds of communities to grow collective wisdom, impart immediate support, and develop practical strategies for real-world solutions."

In 2004-05, the center launched several initiatives that bridge cultures, political divides, social strata, and geographic boundaries. It pushes hard for a simple reason, says Clare:" We don’t have time to waste."