Gifts to Center for Changing Systems of Power contribute to...
What Is CCSP?
Established in January 2020, the Center for Changing Systems of Power (CCSP) addresses some of today’s biggest questions and issues, tackling the interlocking relationships of inequality with multiple systems of oppression and axes of domination defined by class, gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, ability and geography, in the contexts of wealth, poverty and power.
Currently, our affiliates are focused on ecological, health and carceral systems that are in urgent need of transformation.
Epistemically, we are committed to co-producing knowledge with those within and outside the academy to develop solidarities and collaborative solutions for a better world for people and the planet.
Aesthetically, we seek to showcase practices and visions of art that draw upon dynamic local and global traditions and practices that envision a better world for us all.
Socially, the Center is committed to promoting justice, both within and beyond the university, in communities and causes on Long Island, greater New York and globally.
Our mission is rooted in bringing together academics, community groups, artists, advocates and public policymakers by sponsoring dialogues and debate as well as teach-ins over issues of importance within and outside SBU.
The Impact of Your Donation
The Center for Changing Systems of Power is committed, through collaborative research, teaching, advocacy and activism, to furthering epistemic, aesthetic and social justice locally and globally. Donating to CCSP helps to fund programs and events that support these values and expands its reach throughout the Stony Brook and Long Island communities.
In the 2025–2026 academic year, CCSP has sponsored:
- The Humanities Institute Visiting Artists Residency, which in Fall 2025 welcomed Adele Todd and Dean Arlen to Stony Brook University for a two week exploration of the ways collaborative art practices and social justice aesthetics can reshape communal space, specifically the Staller Steps. Read more from SBU News.
- A Student-Led Climate Classroom where, in March 2026, high school students will be brought to Stony Brook’s campus to explore climate solutions through an interdisciplinary lens.
- Community and arts-based research efforts focused on finding solutions to climate injustices affecting marginalized communities on Long Island, collaborating with local organizations such as Long Island Progressive Coalition and Erase Racism.
- Undergraduate and graduate student research, artivism and social justice initiatives.
The Summer Social Justice Grant program, for example, funded four student projects that explored topics of environmental justice and health disparities.
Kamilah Pasha ‘26, a social work major, worked on creating mental health toolboxes for local special education classrooms. Reflecting on her work with CCSP, Kamilah said: “CCSP offered me the opportunity to translate my interests into meaningful action. The organization’s flexibility supported the development of my critical thinking skills and encouraged independent decision-making. Adolescent poverty affects millions of individuals, and its impact extends beyond those who experience it directly, as it can affect anyone or someone they know. CCSP provided me with the space and support to actively contribute to addressing this issue.”
Donating to the Center for Changing Systems of Power helps to fund these programs and is an investment in fostering discussion and inspiring change.
“As universities face scrutiny and funding cuts, as our students seek support, and we all continue working for a more just and sustainable world, your contribution will enable CCSP to inspire and prepare the next generation for the challenges that lie ahead.” — Manisha Desai, Empowerment Trust Endowed Professor of Global Citizenship, Sociology, and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies; and the Executive Director of the Center for Changing Systems of Power
