Mission and Vision

Mission and Vision

Transforming science into solutions for the community.

 

We bridge research and practice by building innovative teams of scientists committed to tackling the most pressing issues facing families today.

 

We strive to improve the lives of vulnerable children, youth, and families by partnering to put our research into the hands of families, community members, and practitioners who are on the front lines of building family and youth resilience, and educating the next generation of scholars and community leaders. The Frances McClelland Institute for Children, Youth, and Families serves as a hub for family and youth-focused research happening across the University of Arizona.

What We Do

We conduct research on children, youth, and families through cross-disciplinary initiatives that engage experienced and emerging scholars in active collaboration. We translate the results of our research for community application and public use. We collaborate with community organizations to share research and to respond to pressing community needs. 

Our goal is to work collaboratively with community organizations and researchers to build strong communities that promote family resilience so that children and youth from vulnerable backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive.

Our Vision

We envision communities that support and value children, youth, and families, and in which the highest-quality research is brought-to-bear on issues important to them. We contribute to building strong communities that  promote family resilience so that all children and youth, especially those from marginalized or disadvantaged backgrounds, have the opportunity to thrive. 

Our Strategies

Support innovative, impactful research to tackle the most pressing issues facing families today.

Share research findings and resources with the community and practitioners who are on the front lines of building family and youth resilience.

Actively partner with community organizations to inform research questions and share research findings.

Educate the next generation of engaged scholars and leaders.

 

Image
Frances McClelland

Our namesake: Frances McClelland

Overcoming adversity and being a light in the community, Frances McClelland always lived a life of service and gratitude. Today, we are thankful for her work and contributions to the community and to the institute, allowing us to continue our mission of supporting Arizona's children, youth, and families, and leaving a lasting impact on the community.

 

Read her story →

 
McClelland Park

Our History

From pioneering research to transformative initiatives, our history unfolds as a testament to a legacy of dedication and progress. For over two decades, the Frances McClelland Institute has been a beacon of excellence, shaping the future of children, youth, and families through visionary leadership and impactful contributions to societal well-being.

 

Read our history →

resources picture with laptop and graph sheet

Our Advisory Council

The purpose of the FMI Advisory Council is to establish community partnerships with the Frances McClelland Institute, so that we can work together towards our common goal of improving the lives of children, youth and families in Arizona and the world.

 

View our council→