Tom F. Marvin

Professor Tom Marvin’s work identifies several factors that contribute to greater effectiveness of community and labor coalitions. His work involves local labor organizers with specialized knowledge of and investment in the local community—and well-structured, service-learning and internship opportunities for students who want to become organizers. Professor Marvin trains local labor organizers through his role as director of the Masarachia Scholars Program, which is designed to give tomorrow’s community leaders the skills they will need to build viable democratic institutions and contribute to social and economic justice. His research looks at participant observation of labor and community coalitions in Indianapolis since 2007—and includes survey and interview data, as well as research into the historical, political, and cultural context of Indianapolis. This research has the potential to improve everyday life for all Indianapolis workers by increasing the standard of living, giving workers a voice in the workplace, and strengthening communities. Professor Marvin’s work to create effective community and labor coalitions is another example of how IUPUI faculty are TRANSLATING RESEARCH INTO PRACTICE.