smcgrath


Susan McGrath

Photo of Susan McGrath

Professor Emerita
Resident Scholar, Centre for Refugee Studies
Member of Order of Canada

Office: Kaneff Tower, 853
Phone: 416-736-2100 Ext: 30391
Email: smcgrath@yorku.ca
Secondary website: http://www.refugeeresearch.net


Susan McGrath’s academic and research interests include: developing a global refugee research network, refugee resettlement, community development and transnational social work.

More...

Degrees

PhD, Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto
MES, Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University
Certificate in Voluntary Sector and Arts Management, Faculty of Administrative Studies, York University
BA, McMaster University

Professional Leadership

Member of advisory editorial board of the journal Refuge, published by the Centre for Refugee Studies, 2006-present. Guest editor of special edition on Social Services and Transnationality of e-journal Transnational Social Review, 2013-14. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration, President, 2008-11. Canadian Association for Refugee and Forced Migration Studies, founding and ongoing Member.

Community Contributions

Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, Board Member, 1998-2006, 2008-12; President, 2009-2011. Member of Black Creek Local Immigration Partnership, a CIC funded initiative to develop partnerships among agencies serving immigrants, 2008-12. Black Creek Community Capacity Building Project, an initiative to promote collaborative planning and development among agencies, residents and businesses in the Black Creek area, founding member and representative of School of Social Work, 2001-09.

Research Interests

Social Work , Community-Based Research, Refugee Studies
  • University of Toronto Open Fellowship, in support of doctoral work. ($10,000 per annum). 1991-1993 - 1991-1993
  • Toronto Star, January 1, One of Ten People to Watch in 2006 – in recognition of work in the Jane Finch community. 2006 - 2006
  • Member of the Order of Canada - 2015
  • SSHRC Impact Award for Partnership - 2015

Current Research Projects

Impact of Collective Trauma on Community Practice

    Summary:

    SSHRC Standard Research Grant, 2007. ($90,000) . Applicant: Bill Lee. Co-applicants: S.McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George

    See more
    Funders:
    Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)
A Canadian Refugee Research Network: Globalizing Knowledge.

    Summary:

    Strategic Knowledge Cluster Grant, 2008. ($2.1M over 7 years) . Applicant: S. McGrath with 10 co-applicants and 17 institutional partners.

    See more
    Funders:
    Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)
Forced Migration in Latin America: Networking for Regional and Policy Responses, 2010. ($15,000).

    See more
    Funders:
    International Development Research Council
Mobilizing a Regional Research Network to address forced migration issues in Latin America.

    Summary:

    Canada-Latin America and the Caribbean Research Exchange Grant, 2011. ($15,000)

    See more
    Funders:
    Association of Universities and Colleges Canada
A community-based mental health intervention for maternal mental health in Rwanda.

    Summary:

    Grand Challenges Canada Mental Health Grant, 2013-15. ($250,000) . Applicant: M. Hynie, co-applicants: Y. Bohr, S. McGrath, Benoite Umubyeyi, Marie Claire GASANGANWA, Regine King.

    See more
    Funders:
    Grand Challenges Canada
Forecasting the Break

    Summary:

    Community and Capacity for Large-Scale, 2013-2014. ($309,000) . Data-Intensive Research in Forced Migration Studies. Applicant: S. Martin, co-applicants: J. Collman, S. Berkowitz, L. Singh & S. McGrath.

    See more
    Funders:
    National Science Foundation
Synthesizing Indigenous and International Social Work Theory and Practice in Rwanda.

    Summary:

    Partnership Development Grant, 2013-15. ($200,000) . Applicant: S. McGrath, co-applicants: S. Dudziak, J. Hahirwah, M. Hynie, R. King, C. Kalinganire & C. Rutikanga.

    See more
    Funders:
    Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)
Books

Publication
Year

Mobilizing Global Knowledge brings together academics and practitioners to reflect on a global collaoborative research network with a wide-ranging impact on refugee research and policy. Together, the members of this network have worked to bridge silos, sectors, and regions to address power and politics in refugee research, engage across tensions between the Global North and Global South, and engage deeply with questions of practice, methodology, and ethics.

2019

Book Chapters

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. and Abdelnour, S. 2012. Participatory Research Partnerships for Development: Reflections from Sudan. In J. Calabrese & JL Marret, (Eds.) Transatlantic Cooperation on Protracted Displacement: Urgent Need and Unique Opportunity. Washington: Middle East Institute.

2012

Wheeler D, Abdelnour S, Badri B, Branzei O and McGrath S (2008). Grassroots enterprise development in post-conflict Southern Sudan and Darfur: Preliminary observations. In: Williams O., Ed. Peace through commerce. Responsible corporate citizenship and the ideals of the UN Global Compact. University of Notre Dame Press, Indiana US, 402-439.

2008

George U., B. Lee, S. McGrath & K. Moffatt. 2002. Community Practice in Diverse Communities in Toronto, Canada. In Chen Qineng (ed.), Community Development in China and Canada. Beijing: Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. pp. 154-172.

2002

McGrath, S. The Child Poverty Action Group: A Study in Influence. In Jane Pulkingham and Gordon Ternowetsky (Eds.), Rethinking Child and Family Policies: Struggles, Strategies and Options, Fernwood Press. pp. 172-187. 2002.

2002

Chambon, A., M. Abai, B. Shapiro, S. McGrath, T. Dremetsikas, and S. Dudziak. 1998. L’interculturel à l’aune des traumatismes communautaires: Les réfugiés survivants de la torture. In K. Fall et al. (Eds.) , Champ multiculturel, transactions interculturelles: des théories, des pratiques, des analyses. Paris: L’Harmattan, pp.133-155.

1998

Monographs

Publication
Year

Abdelnour, S., B. Badri, A. El Jack, D. Wheeler, S. McGrath & O. Branzei. 2008. Examining Enterprise Capacity: A Participatory Social Assessment in Darfur and Southern Sudan. Centre for Refugee Studies.

2008

McGrath, S., T. Derwing, J. Renaud, S. Aiken & T. Das Gupta. 2005. A Cross-Sector Research Agenda for the Protection of Refugees and Forced Migrants - The Report of the SSHRC Research Cluster on Refugees and Forced Migration.

2005

Journal Articles

Publication
Year

Hynie, Michaela, McGrath, Susan, Young, Julie E.E., & Banerjee, Paula. (2014) . Negotiations of engaged scholarship and equity through a global network of refugee scholars. Scholarly and Research Communication, 5(3): 0301164, 18 pp. http://www.src-online.ca/

2014

Moffatt, K., M. Carranza, B. Lee, S. McGrath & U. George. 2013. Collective Trauma as a Personal/Social Concern for Persons within Marginalized Communities. The International Journal of Community Diversity, 12(4):61-80.

2013

McGrath, S. & I. McGrath. 2013. Funding Matters: The Maze of Settlement funding in Canada and the Impact on Refugee Services.Canadian Journal of Urban Research, 22(1):1-20.

2013

Wood, P.B., McGrath, S. and Young, J.E.E.E. (2012) . The Emotional City: Refugee Resettlement in Calgary. Journal for International Migration and Integration, 13(1): 21-37

2012

McGrath, S., Moffatt, K., George, U. and Lee, B. (2012) . Disciplining Community Agencies: The Pressure to Partner. Canadian Social Work Review, 29(1):5-23

2012

McGrath, S., Wood, P.B. and Young, J.E.E.E. (2010) . Safe havens? Mapping the provision of settlement services in three Canadian urban centres. Canadian Social Work Journal, 12(1):192-199.

2010

McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George & B. Lee. 2007. Seeking Social Justice: Community Practice within Diverse Marginalized Populations in Canada. Social Development Issues 29(2).

2007

Adelman, H. & S. McGrath. 2007. To Date Or To Marry: That Is The Question. Journal of Refugee Studies.

2007

Moffatt, K., U. George, B. Lee & S. McGrath. 2005. The Subjective Encounter in Community Practice Research. British Journal of Social Work. 35, 89-104.

2005

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath & K. Moffatt. 2004. Exploring Citizenship in Contemporary Community Practice. Journal of Community Practice. 11(3):71-85

2004

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. 2002. Exploring the Insider Role in Community Work Practice Within Diverse Communities. Critical Social Work. 2(2):69-78.

2002

Chambon, A., S. McGrath, B. Shapiro, M. Abai, S. Dudziak, & T. Dremetsikas. 2001. From Interpersonal Links to Webs of Relations: Creating Befriending Relationships with Survivors of Torture and War. Journal of Social Work Research and Evaluation, 2(2),1-16.

2001

McGrath, S. 2000. Social Planning: Mobilizing Local Civil Society. Plan Canada, 40(2):11-12.

2000

McGrath, S. The Practice of Social Citizenship: Lessons from the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. 2000. First Light, Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, Spring, pp. 3-6.

2000

McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George & B. Lee. 1999. Community Capacity: The Emperor's New Clothes. Canadian Review of Social Policy, 44: 9-23.

1999

Moffatt, K., U. George, B. Lee, & S. McGrath. 1999. Practising Citizenship, A Study of Social Planning Organizations. Community Development Journal, 34(4):308-317.

1999

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. 1996. Community Practice Education in Canadian Schools of Social Work. Canadian Social Work Review, 13(2):221-236.

1996

Popham, R., S. McGrath and P. Zarnke. 1995. The Prospects of Young Families. Transition, Vanier Institute of the Family, December, pp. 12-14.

1995

Conference Papers

Publication
Year

Bridgeland, D., Kinne, L., Martin, S., McGrath, S., Singh, L., Taylor, A. & Sarit Yossinger, N. Forecasting shifting patterns of displacement. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration, Bogota, Colombia, July 17, 2014.

2014

McGrath, S., & M. Millard. 2014. Mobilizing Knowledge Globally: the Refugee Research Network. Canadian Association for Refugee & Forced Migration Studies, Montreal, Quebec, May 8.

2014

McGrath, S., MacLaren, D. & Han, E.P. 2014. Welcoming the Karen to the “New World”: a study of the settlement experiences of Karen refugees in Australia. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration, Bogota, Colombia, July 16.

2014

McGrath, S., Susan Martin, Roberto Vidal, Loren Landau & Galya Ruffer. 2013. Mobilizing Knowledge Globally: Perspectives of the Refugee Research Network. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration Conference, Kolkata India, January 8.

2013

McGrath, S., D. Han, S. Htoo, M. Hynie & D. MacLaren. 2013. The Karen Settlement Experience in Australia. Ryerson Centre for Immigration and Settlement, Toronto, Canada, May 15-17.

2013

McGrath, S. 2010 Safe havens? Mapping the provision of settlement services in Canadian urban centres. Urban Affairs Association Conference, Honolulu, Hawaii. March 11.

2010

McGrath, S., M. Millard & E. Liebovitch. 2009 Building a Global Virtual Community of Researchers: Report of the Refugee Research Network. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration 12th Conference, Nicosia Cyprus, June 28-July 2.

2009

McGrath, S., M. Millard & E. Liebovitch. 2009 Building a Global Virtual Community of Researchers: Report of the Refugee Research Network. Canadian Association for Refugee & Forced Migration Studies, Ottawa ON, June 1-3.

2009

McGrath, S. 2007. Refugee versus Forced Migration Studies: An Inclusive Response. Refugee Studies Centre, Oxford Conference: An Unsettled Future? Forced Migration and Refugee Studies in the 21st Century, December 6-8.

2007

McGrath, S. 2007. Moffatt, K., B. Lee, S. McGrath & U. George. Community Practice with Traumatized Populations. 5th International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities. Paris, July 17-20.

2007

McGrath, S. 2007. Refugee and Asylum-seeker Research in Canada. Special meeting at the 9th National Metropolis Conference, Toronto, March 2.

2007

Badri, B., D. Wheeler, S. McGrath & S. 2006. Abdelnour. Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods and Grassroots Enterprise Development in Darfur and Southern Sudan. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration 10th Conference, Toronto ON. June 18-22.

2006

2006. Lee, B. S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. Community Practice with Traumatized Populations. Congress of the Social Sciences and Humanities, Toronto ON. May 31-June 3.

2006

McGrath, S. 2006. Being a Good Neighbour: Institutions and their Communities. Whitby Mental Health Centre Grand Rounds, March 10.

2006

McGrath, S. 2006. The Changing Dynamics of Asylum and Refugee Settlement in Canada. Plenary speaker. Eighth National Canadian Metropolis Conference, Vancouver, March 23-26.

2006

2005. McGrath, S. & B. Kitchen. Forging the Future of the Academic Journal in the Canadian Social Policy Scene. Canadian Social Policy Conference, Fredericton NB. June 16-18.

2005

2004. McGrath, S. B. Kitchen & W. MacNiven. Leveraging Our Strength: York University’s School of Social Work Establishes a University/Community Research Partnership. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, Winnipeg, May 29-June 1.

2004

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath & K. Moffatt. Civil Society Partnerships: A Study of Community-based Organizations. Inter-University Consortium for International Social Development, Mumbai, India, Dec. 29, 2003 - Jan. 2, 2004.

2004

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. Seeking Social Justice: Community Development Among Diverse Populations. Inter-University Consortium for International Social Development, Mumbai, India, Dec. 29, 2003 - Jan. 2, 2004.

2004

2003. McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George & B. Lee. Disciplining Diverse Community Agencies: The Pressure to Partner. Canadian Social Welfare Policy Conference, Ottawa, June 15-17.

2003

McGrath, S. and T. Dremetsikas. 2003. Empowerment of Women and Children Survivors: Best Practices Within a Community-Based Model. Impact of Global Issues on Women and Children Conference, Bangkok, Thailand, Feb. 16-21.

2003

McGrath, S. and T. Dremetsikas. 2003. Impact of War and Terrorism on the Settlement Process of Women and Children in Canada. Impact of Global Issues on Women and Children Conference, Bangkok, Thailand, Feb. 16-21.

2003

2002. Lee, B., S. McGrath, U. George and K. Moffatt. Beginning to Explore the Insider Role in Community Work Practice Within Marginalized Communities. 2002 Congress of the Social Sciences and Humanities, Toronto, May 25-29.

2002

S. McGrath and S. Dudziak. 2002. Narrative of Knowledge Building in the Shadow of the Eclipse: Bearing Witness to Survivors of Torture. Interdisciplinary Conference on Narrative Perspectives, Approaches, and Issues Across the Humanities and Social Sciences. St. Thomas University, May 16-19.

2002

Chambon, A., M. Abai, S. McGrath, T. Dremetsikas, M. Millard, B. Shapiro, S. Dudziak and M. Kumsa. 2001. Learning in the Shadow of the Eclipse: Bearing Witness to Survivors of Torture. Workshop presentation, Fourth International Conference on Transformative Learning, Toronto, November 2-4.

2001

2001. McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George and B. Lee. Community Practice in Diverse Communities Across Ontario. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work Annual Conference, Quebec City, Canada, May 27-30.

2001

McGrath S. and S. Dudziak. 2000. A Settlement Service that Unsettles our Knowledge Base and Moves Towards Social Change: The Challenge Posed by the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. Joint Conference of the International Federation of Social Workers and International Association of Schools of Social Work, Montreal Canada, July 29-Aug. 2.

2000

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. 2000. Community Practice in Marginalized Communities: A Pilot Study. Joint Conference of the International Federation of Social Workers and International Association of Schools of Social Work, Montreal Canada, July 29-Aug. 2.

2000

Chambon, A., M. Abai, S. McGrath, T. Dremetsikas, B. Shapiro, S. Dudziak, M. Kumsa and M. Millard. 2000. From Research to Service Training: Creating Trustworthy Knowledge to Work with Survivors of Torture and War. Fourth National Metropolis Conference, Toronto, Canada, March 22-25.

2000

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt and U. George. 2000. Defining Citizenship in Contemporary Community Work. Joint Conference of the International Federation of Social Workers and International Association of Schools of Social Work, Montreal Canada, July 29-Aug. 2.

2000

McGrath, S., M. Abai, A. Chambon, B. Shapiro, T. Dremetsikas and S. Dudziak. 1999. The Practice of Social Citizenship: Lessons from the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. VIII International Symposium on Torture, New Delhi, India. September 22 - 25.

1999

McGrath, S., A. Chambon, M. Abai, B. Shapiro, T. Dremetsikas and S. Dudziak. 1999. The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture and Canadian Universities: From a Research to an Educational Partnership for Social Services. VIII International Symposium on Torture, New Delhi, India. September 22 - 25.

1999

Abai, M., A. Chambon, S. McGrath, B. Shapiro, T. Dremetsikas, and S. Dudziak. The Re-construction of Citizenship: Lessons Learned from Survivors of Torture. Third National Metropolis Conference, Vancouver, January 1999.

1999

McGrath, S. 1999. Sustaining a Capacity for Social Policy Advocacy in Civil Society: Lessons from the Toronto Social Planning Council. Ninth Canadian Social Policy Conference, Montreal, Quebec, June.

1999

McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George and B. Lee. Preparing for Community Practice in the Twenty First Century: A Study of Community Social Planning. 1998 Congress of the Social Sciences and Humanities, Ottawa, Ontario, May 31 - June 3 1998.

1998

Chambon, A., M. Abai, T. Dremetsikas, S. McGrath and B. Shapiro. Methodology in University-Community Research Partnerships: The Link-By-Link Project as Case Study. Metropolis Year II, Montreal, November 1997.

1997

McGrath, S. and P. Clutterbuck. Sink or Swim Together: The Reconstruction of Independent Social Planning in Toronto. Eighth Conference on Canadian Social Welfare Policy, Regina, Saskatchewan, June.

1997

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. The Contemporary Context of Community Social Work Practice. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work. Learned Societies Conference, St. John's Newfoundland, June 1997.

1997

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt and U. George. The Emperor's New Clothes: A Critical Examination of the Concept of Community Capacity. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work. Learned Societies Conference, St. John's Newfoundland, June 1997.

1997

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. Critical Issues in Community Development and Pedagogy. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, Learned Societies, Brock University, June 1996.

1996

McGrath, S. The Child Poverty Action Group: A Study of the Practice of Influence. Seventh Conference on Canadian Social Welfare Policy, Vancouver BC., June 1995.

1995

Baines, D. S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. Social Security Review as a Project in Gender and Discipline. Seventh Conference on Canadian Social Welfare Policy, Vancouver BC., June 1995.

1995

McGrath, S. and P. Clutterbuck. Contemporary Practice in Community-based Social Change: The Metro Toronto Social Planning Council Addresses Poverty. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, The Learned Societies Conference, Montreal Quebec, June 1995.

1995

McGrath, S. Community-Based Practice of Progressive Social Change - A Study of the Metro Network for Social Justice. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, The Learned Societies, Calgary, Alberta, June 1994.

1994

Lee, B. and S. McGrath. Dilemmas in Community Consultation. Sixth Biannual Canadian Conference on Social Welfare Policy, St. John's, Newfoundland, June 1993.

1993

Conference Proceedings

Publication
Year

S. McGrath and P. Clutterbuck. Third Sector Transformation in an Emerging City State: A Case Study of the Toronto Social Planning Council. Proceedings of the Third International Conference of the International Society for Third-Sector Research, Geneva, Switzerland, July 1998.

1998

A. Chambon, M. Abai, T. Dremetsikas, S. McGrath and B. Shapiro. Methodology in University-Community Research Partnerships: The Link-By-Link Project as Case Study. Metropolis Year II, Proceedings of the Second National Conference, Montreal: Immigration and Metropolis. Nov. 1997, pp.151-169.

1997

McGrath, S. Practising Community-based Social Development in Canada: The Metro Toronto Social Planning Council Mobilizes the Social. Proceedings of Joint World Congress of the International Federation of Social Workers and the International Association of Schools of Social Work, Hong Kong. June 1996, pp 355-358.

1996

Policy Papers

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. 1996. The Impact of Social Spending Cuts on Families and Communities in Ontario. Co-presenter of the Child Poverty Action Group brief to the Standing Committee on Social Development, the Ontario Legislature, June 18.

1996

McGrath, S. 1994. Tackling Child Poverty: A Serious Investment, Not a Quick Fix Solution. Co-presenter of the Child Poverty Action Group brief to the Standing Committee on Human Resources Development, House of Commons, Ottawa, November.

1994

McGrath, S. 1990. Child Poverty and the Policy Directions of the Child Poverty Action Group. Co-presenter of the Child Poverty Action Group brief to the House of Commons Sub-committee on Poverty, Ottawa, November.

1990

Creative Works

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. 2000. Befriending Survivors of Torture - Building a Web of Community Support. Manual for interactive workshop by Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, University of Toronto and York University. Funded by Citizenship & Immigration, Canada.

2000

Public Lectures

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. 2013. Canada/Australia Study of the Settlement of Karen Refugees. Brotherhood of St. Laurence, Melbourne, Australia, April 4.

2013

McGrath, S. 2013. Welcoming the ‘Good’ Refugee: Australia and Canada’s Response to the Karen. Australian Catholic University Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow Presentation, Sydney, Australia, May, 8.

2013

McGrath, S. 2010. Mobilizing a Global Refugee Research Network: Lessons, Challenges & Impacts. Keynote presentation at the annual conference of the Canadian Association for Refugee and Forced Migration Studies, McMaster University, May 7.

2010

McGrath, S. 2008. Social Sustainability Workshop, Markham Ontario Organized and Presented by Ranu Basu, Liette Gilbert, Susan McGrath, Barbara Rahder, Patricia Wood. Varley Art Gallery, June.

2008

McGrath, S. 2007. Refugees and Mental Health. Presentation at Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation Annual Conference, Ottawa, September 28.

2007

McGrath, S. Enhancing Capacity to Undertake Research into Refugee Resettlement. A workshop presentation at the National Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) Conference, Vancouver, February 19 to 23, 2007.

2007

McGrath, S. 2006. Using Community-Based and Participatory Action Research to Enhance Immigrant and Refugee Education and Services. Toronto School Administrators' Association, Niagara Falls, April 5.

2006

McGrath, S. McGrath, S. & A. Shafai. 2003. Empowerment of Women and Children Survivors. Ontario Association of Social Workers Provincial Conference, Burlington, ON. May 29-30.

2003

McGrath, S. 2001. A Community Development Response to Torture: The Practices of the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. Conference presentation in recognition of June 26 United Nations Day for Survivors of Torture, sponsored by Forum for Activists Against Torture, Kigali, Rwanda, June 26.

2001

McGrath, S. 1996. Social Workers as Social Activists. Key note presentation at a participatory conference for social work students and practitioners, King's College School of Social Work, London, March 8.

1996

McGrath, S. 1995. Responding to Government Cutbacks. Guest speaker, Annual General Meeting of London Social Planning Council, October 27.

1995

McGrath, S. 1991. Strategies for Social Change. Panel member, Ryerson School of Social Work Social Policy Workshop, Toronto, February.

1991

McGrath, S. 1991. Dimensions of Child Poverty in Canada. Co-presenter, Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association conference, Toronto, January.

1991

McGrath, S. 1976. Presentations (est. 100+) to nursing and medical students, teachers, welfare workers, parent groups, service clubs in the Hamilton/Burlington area on Child Abuse and Neglect.

1976


Susan McGrath’s academic and research interests include: developing a global refugee research network, refugee resettlement, community development and transnational social work.

Degrees

PhD, Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto
MES, Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University
Certificate in Voluntary Sector and Arts Management, Faculty of Administrative Studies, York University
BA, McMaster University

Professional Leadership

Member of advisory editorial board of the journal Refuge, published by the Centre for Refugee Studies, 2006-present. Guest editor of special edition on Social Services and Transnationality of e-journal Transnational Social Review, 2013-14. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration, President, 2008-11. Canadian Association for Refugee and Forced Migration Studies, founding and ongoing Member.

Community Contributions

Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, Board Member, 1998-2006, 2008-12; President, 2009-2011. Member of Black Creek Local Immigration Partnership, a CIC funded initiative to develop partnerships among agencies serving immigrants, 2008-12. Black Creek Community Capacity Building Project, an initiative to promote collaborative planning and development among agencies, residents and businesses in the Black Creek area, founding member and representative of School of Social Work, 2001-09.

Research Interests

Social Work , Community-Based Research, Refugee Studies

Awards

  • University of Toronto Open Fellowship, in support of doctoral work. ($10,000 per annum). 1991-1993 - 1991-1993
  • Toronto Star, January 1, One of Ten People to Watch in 2006 – in recognition of work in the Jane Finch community. 2006 - 2006
  • Member of the Order of Canada - 2015
  • SSHRC Impact Award for Partnership - 2015

Current Research Projects

Impact of Collective Trauma on Community Practice

    Summary:

    SSHRC Standard Research Grant, 2007. ($90,000) . Applicant: Bill Lee. Co-applicants: S.McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George

    Funders:
    Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)
A Canadian Refugee Research Network: Globalizing Knowledge.

    Summary:

    Strategic Knowledge Cluster Grant, 2008. ($2.1M over 7 years) . Applicant: S. McGrath with 10 co-applicants and 17 institutional partners.

    Funders:
    Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)
Forced Migration in Latin America: Networking for Regional and Policy Responses, 2010. ($15,000).

    Funders:
    International Development Research Council
Mobilizing a Regional Research Network to address forced migration issues in Latin America.

    Summary:

    Canada-Latin America and the Caribbean Research Exchange Grant, 2011. ($15,000)

    Funders:
    Association of Universities and Colleges Canada
A community-based mental health intervention for maternal mental health in Rwanda.

    Summary:

    Grand Challenges Canada Mental Health Grant, 2013-15. ($250,000) . Applicant: M. Hynie, co-applicants: Y. Bohr, S. McGrath, Benoite Umubyeyi, Marie Claire GASANGANWA, Regine King.

    Funders:
    Grand Challenges Canada
Forecasting the Break

    Summary:

    Community and Capacity for Large-Scale, 2013-2014. ($309,000) . Data-Intensive Research in Forced Migration Studies. Applicant: S. Martin, co-applicants: J. Collman, S. Berkowitz, L. Singh & S. McGrath.

    Funders:
    National Science Foundation
Synthesizing Indigenous and International Social Work Theory and Practice in Rwanda.

    Summary:

    Partnership Development Grant, 2013-15. ($200,000) . Applicant: S. McGrath, co-applicants: S. Dudziak, J. Hahirwah, M. Hynie, R. King, C. Kalinganire & C. Rutikanga.

    Funders:
    Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)

All Publications


Book Chapters

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. and Abdelnour, S. 2012. Participatory Research Partnerships for Development: Reflections from Sudan. In J. Calabrese & JL Marret, (Eds.) Transatlantic Cooperation on Protracted Displacement: Urgent Need and Unique Opportunity. Washington: Middle East Institute.

2012

Wheeler D, Abdelnour S, Badri B, Branzei O and McGrath S (2008). Grassroots enterprise development in post-conflict Southern Sudan and Darfur: Preliminary observations. In: Williams O., Ed. Peace through commerce. Responsible corporate citizenship and the ideals of the UN Global Compact. University of Notre Dame Press, Indiana US, 402-439.

2008

George U., B. Lee, S. McGrath & K. Moffatt. 2002. Community Practice in Diverse Communities in Toronto, Canada. In Chen Qineng (ed.), Community Development in China and Canada. Beijing: Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. pp. 154-172.

2002

McGrath, S. The Child Poverty Action Group: A Study in Influence. In Jane Pulkingham and Gordon Ternowetsky (Eds.), Rethinking Child and Family Policies: Struggles, Strategies and Options, Fernwood Press. pp. 172-187. 2002.

2002

Chambon, A., M. Abai, B. Shapiro, S. McGrath, T. Dremetsikas, and S. Dudziak. 1998. L’interculturel à l’aune des traumatismes communautaires: Les réfugiés survivants de la torture. In K. Fall et al. (Eds.) , Champ multiculturel, transactions interculturelles: des théories, des pratiques, des analyses. Paris: L’Harmattan, pp.133-155.

1998

Books

Publication
Year

Mobilizing Global Knowledge brings together academics and practitioners to reflect on a global collaoborative research network with a wide-ranging impact on refugee research and policy. Together, the members of this network have worked to bridge silos, sectors, and regions to address power and politics in refugee research, engage across tensions between the Global North and Global South, and engage deeply with questions of practice, methodology, and ethics.

2019

Monographs

Publication
Year

Abdelnour, S., B. Badri, A. El Jack, D. Wheeler, S. McGrath & O. Branzei. 2008. Examining Enterprise Capacity: A Participatory Social Assessment in Darfur and Southern Sudan. Centre for Refugee Studies.

2008

McGrath, S., T. Derwing, J. Renaud, S. Aiken & T. Das Gupta. 2005. A Cross-Sector Research Agenda for the Protection of Refugees and Forced Migrants - The Report of the SSHRC Research Cluster on Refugees and Forced Migration.

2005

Journal Articles

Publication
Year

Hynie, Michaela, McGrath, Susan, Young, Julie E.E., & Banerjee, Paula. (2014) . Negotiations of engaged scholarship and equity through a global network of refugee scholars. Scholarly and Research Communication, 5(3): 0301164, 18 pp. http://www.src-online.ca/

2014

Moffatt, K., M. Carranza, B. Lee, S. McGrath & U. George. 2013. Collective Trauma as a Personal/Social Concern for Persons within Marginalized Communities. The International Journal of Community Diversity, 12(4):61-80.

2013

McGrath, S. & I. McGrath. 2013. Funding Matters: The Maze of Settlement funding in Canada and the Impact on Refugee Services.Canadian Journal of Urban Research, 22(1):1-20.

2013

Wood, P.B., McGrath, S. and Young, J.E.E.E. (2012) . The Emotional City: Refugee Resettlement in Calgary. Journal for International Migration and Integration, 13(1): 21-37

2012

McGrath, S., Moffatt, K., George, U. and Lee, B. (2012) . Disciplining Community Agencies: The Pressure to Partner. Canadian Social Work Review, 29(1):5-23

2012

McGrath, S., Wood, P.B. and Young, J.E.E.E. (2010) . Safe havens? Mapping the provision of settlement services in three Canadian urban centres. Canadian Social Work Journal, 12(1):192-199.

2010

McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George & B. Lee. 2007. Seeking Social Justice: Community Practice within Diverse Marginalized Populations in Canada. Social Development Issues 29(2).

2007

Adelman, H. & S. McGrath. 2007. To Date Or To Marry: That Is The Question. Journal of Refugee Studies.

2007

Moffatt, K., U. George, B. Lee & S. McGrath. 2005. The Subjective Encounter in Community Practice Research. British Journal of Social Work. 35, 89-104.

2005

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath & K. Moffatt. 2004. Exploring Citizenship in Contemporary Community Practice. Journal of Community Practice. 11(3):71-85

2004

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. 2002. Exploring the Insider Role in Community Work Practice Within Diverse Communities. Critical Social Work. 2(2):69-78.

2002

Chambon, A., S. McGrath, B. Shapiro, M. Abai, S. Dudziak, & T. Dremetsikas. 2001. From Interpersonal Links to Webs of Relations: Creating Befriending Relationships with Survivors of Torture and War. Journal of Social Work Research and Evaluation, 2(2),1-16.

2001

McGrath, S. 2000. Social Planning: Mobilizing Local Civil Society. Plan Canada, 40(2):11-12.

2000

McGrath, S. The Practice of Social Citizenship: Lessons from the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. 2000. First Light, Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, Spring, pp. 3-6.

2000

McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George & B. Lee. 1999. Community Capacity: The Emperor's New Clothes. Canadian Review of Social Policy, 44: 9-23.

1999

Moffatt, K., U. George, B. Lee, & S. McGrath. 1999. Practising Citizenship, A Study of Social Planning Organizations. Community Development Journal, 34(4):308-317.

1999

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. 1996. Community Practice Education in Canadian Schools of Social Work. Canadian Social Work Review, 13(2):221-236.

1996

Popham, R., S. McGrath and P. Zarnke. 1995. The Prospects of Young Families. Transition, Vanier Institute of the Family, December, pp. 12-14.

1995

Conference Papers

Publication
Year

Bridgeland, D., Kinne, L., Martin, S., McGrath, S., Singh, L., Taylor, A. & Sarit Yossinger, N. Forecasting shifting patterns of displacement. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration, Bogota, Colombia, July 17, 2014.

2014

McGrath, S., & M. Millard. 2014. Mobilizing Knowledge Globally: the Refugee Research Network. Canadian Association for Refugee & Forced Migration Studies, Montreal, Quebec, May 8.

2014

McGrath, S., MacLaren, D. & Han, E.P. 2014. Welcoming the Karen to the “New World”: a study of the settlement experiences of Karen refugees in Australia. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration, Bogota, Colombia, July 16.

2014

McGrath, S., Susan Martin, Roberto Vidal, Loren Landau & Galya Ruffer. 2013. Mobilizing Knowledge Globally: Perspectives of the Refugee Research Network. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration Conference, Kolkata India, January 8.

2013

McGrath, S., D. Han, S. Htoo, M. Hynie & D. MacLaren. 2013. The Karen Settlement Experience in Australia. Ryerson Centre for Immigration and Settlement, Toronto, Canada, May 15-17.

2013

McGrath, S. 2010 Safe havens? Mapping the provision of settlement services in Canadian urban centres. Urban Affairs Association Conference, Honolulu, Hawaii. March 11.

2010

McGrath, S., M. Millard & E. Liebovitch. 2009 Building a Global Virtual Community of Researchers: Report of the Refugee Research Network. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration 12th Conference, Nicosia Cyprus, June 28-July 2.

2009

McGrath, S., M. Millard & E. Liebovitch. 2009 Building a Global Virtual Community of Researchers: Report of the Refugee Research Network. Canadian Association for Refugee & Forced Migration Studies, Ottawa ON, June 1-3.

2009

McGrath, S. 2007. Refugee versus Forced Migration Studies: An Inclusive Response. Refugee Studies Centre, Oxford Conference: An Unsettled Future? Forced Migration and Refugee Studies in the 21st Century, December 6-8.

2007

McGrath, S. 2007. Moffatt, K., B. Lee, S. McGrath & U. George. Community Practice with Traumatized Populations. 5th International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities. Paris, July 17-20.

2007

McGrath, S. 2007. Refugee and Asylum-seeker Research in Canada. Special meeting at the 9th National Metropolis Conference, Toronto, March 2.

2007

Badri, B., D. Wheeler, S. McGrath & S. 2006. Abdelnour. Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods and Grassroots Enterprise Development in Darfur and Southern Sudan. International Association for the Study of Forced Migration 10th Conference, Toronto ON. June 18-22.

2006

2006. Lee, B. S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. Community Practice with Traumatized Populations. Congress of the Social Sciences and Humanities, Toronto ON. May 31-June 3.

2006

McGrath, S. 2006. Being a Good Neighbour: Institutions and their Communities. Whitby Mental Health Centre Grand Rounds, March 10.

2006

McGrath, S. 2006. The Changing Dynamics of Asylum and Refugee Settlement in Canada. Plenary speaker. Eighth National Canadian Metropolis Conference, Vancouver, March 23-26.

2006

2005. McGrath, S. & B. Kitchen. Forging the Future of the Academic Journal in the Canadian Social Policy Scene. Canadian Social Policy Conference, Fredericton NB. June 16-18.

2005

2004. McGrath, S. B. Kitchen & W. MacNiven. Leveraging Our Strength: York University’s School of Social Work Establishes a University/Community Research Partnership. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, Winnipeg, May 29-June 1.

2004

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath & K. Moffatt. Civil Society Partnerships: A Study of Community-based Organizations. Inter-University Consortium for International Social Development, Mumbai, India, Dec. 29, 2003 - Jan. 2, 2004.

2004

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt & U. George. Seeking Social Justice: Community Development Among Diverse Populations. Inter-University Consortium for International Social Development, Mumbai, India, Dec. 29, 2003 - Jan. 2, 2004.

2004

2003. McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George & B. Lee. Disciplining Diverse Community Agencies: The Pressure to Partner. Canadian Social Welfare Policy Conference, Ottawa, June 15-17.

2003

McGrath, S. and T. Dremetsikas. 2003. Empowerment of Women and Children Survivors: Best Practices Within a Community-Based Model. Impact of Global Issues on Women and Children Conference, Bangkok, Thailand, Feb. 16-21.

2003

McGrath, S. and T. Dremetsikas. 2003. Impact of War and Terrorism on the Settlement Process of Women and Children in Canada. Impact of Global Issues on Women and Children Conference, Bangkok, Thailand, Feb. 16-21.

2003

2002. Lee, B., S. McGrath, U. George and K. Moffatt. Beginning to Explore the Insider Role in Community Work Practice Within Marginalized Communities. 2002 Congress of the Social Sciences and Humanities, Toronto, May 25-29.

2002

S. McGrath and S. Dudziak. 2002. Narrative of Knowledge Building in the Shadow of the Eclipse: Bearing Witness to Survivors of Torture. Interdisciplinary Conference on Narrative Perspectives, Approaches, and Issues Across the Humanities and Social Sciences. St. Thomas University, May 16-19.

2002

Chambon, A., M. Abai, S. McGrath, T. Dremetsikas, M. Millard, B. Shapiro, S. Dudziak and M. Kumsa. 2001. Learning in the Shadow of the Eclipse: Bearing Witness to Survivors of Torture. Workshop presentation, Fourth International Conference on Transformative Learning, Toronto, November 2-4.

2001

2001. McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George and B. Lee. Community Practice in Diverse Communities Across Ontario. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work Annual Conference, Quebec City, Canada, May 27-30.

2001

McGrath S. and S. Dudziak. 2000. A Settlement Service that Unsettles our Knowledge Base and Moves Towards Social Change: The Challenge Posed by the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. Joint Conference of the International Federation of Social Workers and International Association of Schools of Social Work, Montreal Canada, July 29-Aug. 2.

2000

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. 2000. Community Practice in Marginalized Communities: A Pilot Study. Joint Conference of the International Federation of Social Workers and International Association of Schools of Social Work, Montreal Canada, July 29-Aug. 2.

2000

Chambon, A., M. Abai, S. McGrath, T. Dremetsikas, B. Shapiro, S. Dudziak, M. Kumsa and M. Millard. 2000. From Research to Service Training: Creating Trustworthy Knowledge to Work with Survivors of Torture and War. Fourth National Metropolis Conference, Toronto, Canada, March 22-25.

2000

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt and U. George. 2000. Defining Citizenship in Contemporary Community Work. Joint Conference of the International Federation of Social Workers and International Association of Schools of Social Work, Montreal Canada, July 29-Aug. 2.

2000

McGrath, S., M. Abai, A. Chambon, B. Shapiro, T. Dremetsikas and S. Dudziak. 1999. The Practice of Social Citizenship: Lessons from the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. VIII International Symposium on Torture, New Delhi, India. September 22 - 25.

1999

McGrath, S., A. Chambon, M. Abai, B. Shapiro, T. Dremetsikas and S. Dudziak. 1999. The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture and Canadian Universities: From a Research to an Educational Partnership for Social Services. VIII International Symposium on Torture, New Delhi, India. September 22 - 25.

1999

Abai, M., A. Chambon, S. McGrath, B. Shapiro, T. Dremetsikas, and S. Dudziak. The Re-construction of Citizenship: Lessons Learned from Survivors of Torture. Third National Metropolis Conference, Vancouver, January 1999.

1999

McGrath, S. 1999. Sustaining a Capacity for Social Policy Advocacy in Civil Society: Lessons from the Toronto Social Planning Council. Ninth Canadian Social Policy Conference, Montreal, Quebec, June.

1999

McGrath, S., K. Moffatt, U. George and B. Lee. Preparing for Community Practice in the Twenty First Century: A Study of Community Social Planning. 1998 Congress of the Social Sciences and Humanities, Ottawa, Ontario, May 31 - June 3 1998.

1998

Chambon, A., M. Abai, T. Dremetsikas, S. McGrath and B. Shapiro. Methodology in University-Community Research Partnerships: The Link-By-Link Project as Case Study. Metropolis Year II, Montreal, November 1997.

1997

McGrath, S. and P. Clutterbuck. Sink or Swim Together: The Reconstruction of Independent Social Planning in Toronto. Eighth Conference on Canadian Social Welfare Policy, Regina, Saskatchewan, June.

1997

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. The Contemporary Context of Community Social Work Practice. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work. Learned Societies Conference, St. John's Newfoundland, June 1997.

1997

Lee, B., S. McGrath, K. Moffatt and U. George. The Emperor's New Clothes: A Critical Examination of the Concept of Community Capacity. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work. Learned Societies Conference, St. John's Newfoundland, June 1997.

1997

George, U., B. Lee, S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. Critical Issues in Community Development and Pedagogy. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, Learned Societies, Brock University, June 1996.

1996

McGrath, S. The Child Poverty Action Group: A Study of the Practice of Influence. Seventh Conference on Canadian Social Welfare Policy, Vancouver BC., June 1995.

1995

Baines, D. S. McGrath and K. Moffatt. Social Security Review as a Project in Gender and Discipline. Seventh Conference on Canadian Social Welfare Policy, Vancouver BC., June 1995.

1995

McGrath, S. and P. Clutterbuck. Contemporary Practice in Community-based Social Change: The Metro Toronto Social Planning Council Addresses Poverty. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, The Learned Societies Conference, Montreal Quebec, June 1995.

1995

McGrath, S. Community-Based Practice of Progressive Social Change - A Study of the Metro Network for Social Justice. Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, The Learned Societies, Calgary, Alberta, June 1994.

1994

Lee, B. and S. McGrath. Dilemmas in Community Consultation. Sixth Biannual Canadian Conference on Social Welfare Policy, St. John's, Newfoundland, June 1993.

1993

Conference Proceedings

Publication
Year

S. McGrath and P. Clutterbuck. Third Sector Transformation in an Emerging City State: A Case Study of the Toronto Social Planning Council. Proceedings of the Third International Conference of the International Society for Third-Sector Research, Geneva, Switzerland, July 1998.

1998

A. Chambon, M. Abai, T. Dremetsikas, S. McGrath and B. Shapiro. Methodology in University-Community Research Partnerships: The Link-By-Link Project as Case Study. Metropolis Year II, Proceedings of the Second National Conference, Montreal: Immigration and Metropolis. Nov. 1997, pp.151-169.

1997

McGrath, S. Practising Community-based Social Development in Canada: The Metro Toronto Social Planning Council Mobilizes the Social. Proceedings of Joint World Congress of the International Federation of Social Workers and the International Association of Schools of Social Work, Hong Kong. June 1996, pp 355-358.

1996

Policy Papers

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. 1996. The Impact of Social Spending Cuts on Families and Communities in Ontario. Co-presenter of the Child Poverty Action Group brief to the Standing Committee on Social Development, the Ontario Legislature, June 18.

1996

McGrath, S. 1994. Tackling Child Poverty: A Serious Investment, Not a Quick Fix Solution. Co-presenter of the Child Poverty Action Group brief to the Standing Committee on Human Resources Development, House of Commons, Ottawa, November.

1994

McGrath, S. 1990. Child Poverty and the Policy Directions of the Child Poverty Action Group. Co-presenter of the Child Poverty Action Group brief to the House of Commons Sub-committee on Poverty, Ottawa, November.

1990

Creative Works

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. 2000. Befriending Survivors of Torture - Building a Web of Community Support. Manual for interactive workshop by Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, University of Toronto and York University. Funded by Citizenship & Immigration, Canada.

2000

Public Lectures

Publication
Year

McGrath, S. 2013. Canada/Australia Study of the Settlement of Karen Refugees. Brotherhood of St. Laurence, Melbourne, Australia, April 4.

2013

McGrath, S. 2013. Welcoming the ‘Good’ Refugee: Australia and Canada’s Response to the Karen. Australian Catholic University Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow Presentation, Sydney, Australia, May, 8.

2013

McGrath, S. 2010. Mobilizing a Global Refugee Research Network: Lessons, Challenges & Impacts. Keynote presentation at the annual conference of the Canadian Association for Refugee and Forced Migration Studies, McMaster University, May 7.

2010

McGrath, S. 2008. Social Sustainability Workshop, Markham Ontario Organized and Presented by Ranu Basu, Liette Gilbert, Susan McGrath, Barbara Rahder, Patricia Wood. Varley Art Gallery, June.

2008

McGrath, S. 2007. Refugees and Mental Health. Presentation at Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation Annual Conference, Ottawa, September 28.

2007

McGrath, S. Enhancing Capacity to Undertake Research into Refugee Resettlement. A workshop presentation at the National Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) Conference, Vancouver, February 19 to 23, 2007.

2007

McGrath, S. 2006. Using Community-Based and Participatory Action Research to Enhance Immigrant and Refugee Education and Services. Toronto School Administrators' Association, Niagara Falls, April 5.

2006

McGrath, S. McGrath, S. & A. Shafai. 2003. Empowerment of Women and Children Survivors. Ontario Association of Social Workers Provincial Conference, Burlington, ON. May 29-30.

2003

McGrath, S. 2001. A Community Development Response to Torture: The Practices of the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture. Conference presentation in recognition of June 26 United Nations Day for Survivors of Torture, sponsored by Forum for Activists Against Torture, Kigali, Rwanda, June 26.

2001

McGrath, S. 1996. Social Workers as Social Activists. Key note presentation at a participatory conference for social work students and practitioners, King's College School of Social Work, London, March 8.

1996

McGrath, S. 1995. Responding to Government Cutbacks. Guest speaker, Annual General Meeting of London Social Planning Council, October 27.

1995

McGrath, S. 1991. Strategies for Social Change. Panel member, Ryerson School of Social Work Social Policy Workshop, Toronto, February.

1991

McGrath, S. 1991. Dimensions of Child Poverty in Canada. Co-presenter, Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association conference, Toronto, January.

1991

McGrath, S. 1976. Presentations (est. 100+) to nursing and medical students, teachers, welfare workers, parent groups, service clubs in the Hamilton/Burlington area on Child Abuse and Neglect.

1976