Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation awards $5 million to support scholarships

Mandel School front exterior with snow on ground and sun out

Funds to reduce financial burden for master’s degree students

The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation has awarded the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University a five-year, $5 million grant to support scholarships for promising master’s degree students who will be known as “Mandel Scholars.”

“As one of the nation’s leading social work schools, we attract outstanding applicants from around the world who are committed to promoting equity and social transformation,” said Dexter R. Voisin, the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Dean of Applied Social Sciences. “We deeply appreciate the Mandel Foundation’s generous commitment of Mandel Dean’s Scholarships, which will allow more of these exceptional students to pursue a Mandel education and, in turn, benefit those they go on to serve.”

Founded in 1915 by the greater Cleveland community, the Mandel School is renowned for offerings that combine classroom and community-based learning with interdisciplinary research and multi-institutional collaboration. 

Student field placements alone account for more than $3 million of annual economic impact in this area, while faculty research and other initiatives contribute to community health and well-being, inform public policy and help attract government funding for critical regional needs. Upon receiving their diplomas, more than 80% of Mandel School graduates remain in Northeast Ohio to protect and champion the needs of the most vulnerable members of the community. 

“The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation has long supported the Mandel School’s efforts to advance leadership in social work education and nonprofit service to build a more just world,” said Jehuda Reinharz, President and CEO of the Foundation. “As the need for well-prepared, mission-driven leaders continues to grow, reducing their financial burden represents an important investment for the future.”

In total, Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel and their foundations have provided more than $68 million in philanthropic support to Case Western Reserve University.

Learn more about the Mandel School's degree programs.


This story appeared in The Daily on Jan. 22, 2024.