In 2014, the Center for Human Growth and Development celebrates 50 years of research on children’s health and development at the University of Michigan.
Founded by the Board of Regents in 1964, the center began with a small group of scholars. Today it is home to 37 members with appointments in CHGD as well as in schools and colleges across the university.
The center is internationally known for its role in integrating biological, behavioral, and cultural aspects of development by supporting interdisciplinary collaborations across disciplines such as psychology, pediatrics and kinesiology.
“Doing such research often requires that individuals move outside their comfort zones and work across disciplinary lines,” says Brenda Volling, director of CHGD and professor of psychology. “Yet the collaborations often lead to exciting new studies that address important public health issues in a way not possible within a single discipline.”
To commemorate a half century of research, CHGD will host a symposium June 6 in the Rackahm Amphitheatre. The symposium, titled “Investing in Children and Families: What Really Counts,” will feature two keynote addresses.
Greg J. Duncan, distinguished professor, School of Education, University of California, Irvine, will discuss the effects of income inequality in the United States and the ramifications of social disparities on children’s long-term health and achievement during the morning session.
In the afternoon, Samuel J. Meisels, founding executive director of the Buffett Early Childhood Institute and professor of child, youth and family studies at the University of Nebraska, will talk on the benefits of early interventions to support healthy child development.
CHGD researchers will also present on various aspects of child and family development.
“Both our invited speakers and our CHGD researchers will be presenting during the day,” says Volling. “This provides an opportunity for the U-M community to learn more about the center and also the importance of how investing in children benefits families, schools and our communities well into the future.”
The symposium is free and open to the public. For more information, call 734-763-9719.
