The Centre for Transformation
The Centre for Transformation, located in the faculties of Social Work and Law, is dedicated to community-centred collaboration, research and action to lead systemic change in our society.
Transforming the Family Justice System
Sparked by a historic $26.8-million philanthropic gift from the Alberta Law Foundation to the faculties of Social Work and Law, the Centre for Transformation is focused on improving outcomes for families navigating the family justice system.
How are we transforming family justice?
The goal of the initiative is to move many family justice matters from the courts to a new process that supports families. Instead of starting at the legal dispute stage, families filing for divorce will be supported through a less adversarial process that helps them work through the important decisions surrounding their divorce, instead of having the courts decide. The approach looks to prevent trauma to children, removing "separation and divorce" from the list of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in Alberta. Besides better outcomes for families, the initiative aims to reduce the burden on the courts and legal aid.
What's New
First Research Chair in Family Justice named
An opportunity to work with communities to bring about systems transformation was an opportunity too important to pass up for Dr. Kate Maurer, PhD.
Maurer has been appointed the inaugural Research Chair in Family Justice in the Faculty of Social Work, starting in the post on Jan. 1. In this role, they will work in tandem with the Centre for Transformation, an innovative partnership between the social work and law faculties. See More
Centre Senior Director recognized for service
A passion for helping children and families has led to a prestigious legal honour for the senior director of the University of Calgary’s Centre for Transformation.
Diana Lowe, KC, is receiving the 2026 Distinguished Service Award for Service to the Community, presented jointly by the Canadian Bar Association - Alberta and the Law Society of Alberta. See More