Trina Shanks

Harold R Johnson Collegiate Professor of Social Work and Professor of Social Work, School of Social Work

Trina Shanks, a faculty member at the University for 20 years, has dedicated her career to researching and advocating for policies that aim to improve educational attainment and wealth-building opportunities for low-income families and young children. Her research in child savings accounts began with an idea, evolved into evidence, and has now become a policy implemented in seven states. Dr. Shanks is currently working on a project called “Navigating Technology to Help Detroit Youth Prepare for College and Careers.” This project aims to increase Detroit youth’s awareness of and use of Xello, a state-funded platform that helps students plan for their future. Through this project, Dr. Shanks hopes to improve college and career readiness among Detroit youth.

Project Funded

2025 Navigating Technology to Help Detroit Youth Prepare for College and Careers