PhD graduate and York University Assistant Professor Trish Lenz talks about transformation social innovation and key memories during her time at U of T
Categories: PhD students, ResearchTrish Lenz, who received her PhD from the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work on October 28th, recommends new students celebrate every milestone. She shares insights from her dissertation on transformational social innovation, and memories that will stick with her as she takes on a new role at York University’s School of Social Work.
Trish Lenz during the Fall 2025 convocation procession
What was the focus of your dissertation?
My dissertation focused on deepening our understanding of the construct of transformational social innovation, along with ways of creating institutional dynamics related to power, resources and inclusivity that can lead to sustained transformational change within the current political economic context.
What are some key takeaways from your research that you would like people to know?
Transformational social innovation (TSI) can be leveraged to make really impactful and lasting change in the world, including the creation of material and tangible benefits for those most marginalized in society. TSI is a process of social change that creates new and innovative service delivery solutions while challenging, altering and replacing dominant institutions and power structures. It’s important for social workers to be aware of concepts like TSI that may seem tangential to the practice of social work or more relevant and applicable in policy circles. Knowing how to best leverage and support new concepts such as TSI supports social workers to interrogate and influence systems of power and to create lasting change that not only redistributes material resources, but that also creates new ways of sharing power and decision-making.
Could you share a key memory or lesson from the program that has stuck with you?
A key memory of my time at U of T has been appreciating the privilege of spending time with really smart people, learning, discussing and debating ways of making good change in our world through social work. The theoretical and scholarly training, as well as the opportunities to work with seasoned, tenured professors were key components in my studies at U of T.
What is next for you?
In August I joined York University as an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work.
What advice do you have for new or current PhD students at FIFSW?
My advice for new or current PhD students is to really embrace the learning and the time spent in classrooms with colleagues discussing, thinking, wondering and being curious about the world. It is such a joy and privilege to learn. Celebrate each milestone you accomplish, no matter how small. Social work is such an impactful service to our communities, and is also often a very heavy and grief-filled space to exist in – take care of yourself and your communities by really embracing the network and community of scholarship at U of T and also take time to take care of yourself.
Where can people follow your work?
Find me online on LinkedIn or drop me a line at York! I love connecting and collaborating with others 😊.