https://swchrs.ou.edu/About Parent Page: About id: 34815 Active Page: Historyid:34818

SWCHRS HISTORY

At the core of our mission lies the commitment to organizing learning communities focused on the nuanced dynamics of human conflict and resolution. We serve as a catalyst for promoting human rights through education, research, advocacy, and collaboration, transforming individuals and institutions to ensure opportunities for all.

Our History

Founded in 1961, the Southwest Center for Human Relations Studies (SWCHRS) was established to address civic conflict and controversy, particularly in public education. Our first major initiative addressed court-mandated school-integration decisions. Over seven decades, we have evolved to focus on intercultural and intergroup relations, communication, conflict management, collaboration, leadership, organizational culture, and decision-making. Our ongoing mission is to promote understanding and cooperation across various sectors of society through education, research, advocacy, and collaboration, and organizing learning communities that address human conflict and resolution dynamics to create opportunities that foster positive change.