University of Nebraska-Omaha’s School of Social Work has now been renamed in honor of social reformist Grace Abbott.  The Grace Abbott School of Social Work finally received its new name after five years of effort made by Ann Coyne, a University of Nebraska-Omaha professor, and John Sorenson, co-editor of The Grace Abbott Reader.  Grace Abbott, a native Nebraskan, sought to protect women, children, and immigrants from social injustice.  During her lifetime, Abbott diligently worked to promote programs that aided women and children’s health and helped immigrant families successfully adapt to life in a new country.  This time period, the early 20^th century, was critical in shaping our views on labor and industry.  Abbott was an important force during that changing zeitgeist, as she helped Congress pass the first child labor laws.  The Grace Abbott Reader is a collection of Abbott’s most influential writings that display her talent of improving the quality of life for many. 
Ceremonies are being planned in Grand Island and at the University of Nebraska-Omaha to celebrate the School of Social Work’s new name.
A recent story in the Grand Island Independent (Abbott was from Grand Island) summarizes the effort to add Abbott's name to the School of Social Work and also highlights some of Abbott's biggest achievements. You can read an excerpt from The Grace Abbott Reader on our Web site.