Cotton Brings Social Work and Gerontology Students to Homewood Community Day

Cotton and team

On August 7, 2025, the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work joined neighbors, partners, and local leaders in celebrating Homewood Community Day—a day dedicated to honoring the neighborhood’s pride, partnerships, and progress.
Representing the School of Social Work were (left to right) Dr. John Wallace (Vice Provost for Faculty Diversity and Development), Dr. Quinton Cotton (Assistant Professor), Clinton Gyimah (incoming doctoral student focused on older adults and caregiving), and Camille LaRock (undergraduate gerontology student), pictured with Vernard Alexander (Director of the Homewood Community Engagement Center).
Dr. Cotton underscored the importance of the School of Social Work’s presence in Homewood:
“Our work in Homewood is about more than showing up—it’s about showing up with purpose. Through our ongoing partnership with the Homewood Community Engagement Center, we can connect the strengths and skills of our faculty and students with the priorities identified by residents. Pitt’s strong research enterprise offers opportunities to co-create and test solutions with the community. Together, we can address challenges, improve health, and create lasting change.”
This fall, Dr. Cotton will launch a new study aimed at strengthening intergenerational social connections in Black and African American communities to support older adults and persons with dementia who are experiencing loneliness and social isolation. The project will actively recruit participants in Homewood and across Allegheny County, creating space for residents to share their voices, shape solutions, and help build a healthier future.