SSWR Privacy Policy
The Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) is committed to maintaining the trust of its members and the broader research community. We value your privacy and recognize the importance and sensitivity of the personal information you share with us. This Privacy Policy explains what information SSWR collects from members, conference attendees, website users, and others who engage with SSWR’s programs, services, and digital platforms (“Users”), how that information is used, and the choices available to you.
By using SSWR’s websites, registering for events, or engaging with our services, you consent to the terms of this Privacy Policy and to the processing of your information as described below. If you do not agree, please do not use SSWR services or websites.
Information SSWR Collects and How It Is Used
SSWR collects information to support its mission of advancing social work research, facilitating scholarly exchange, and providing high-quality member services.
Member and User Information
As a membership organization, SSWR collects personal information necessary to manage membership and deliver services. This may include:
- Name, mailing address, email address, phone number
- Institutional affiliation and professional role
- Demographic and research interest information
- Username and account credentials
- Payment and billing details
- Communication preferences
Conference and Event Registration
When you register for the SSWR Annual Conference or other events, we collect information such as your name, contact details, institutional affiliation, and any additional information you voluntarily provide (e.g., accessibility needs, presentation details). This information is used to manage registration, facilitate participation, and enhance the conference experience.
Research, Programs, and Communications
SSWR may collect information when you:
- Submit abstracts, proposals, or research materials
- Participate in surveys or research-related initiatives
- Engage with webinars, training, or other professional development offerings
This information helps SSWR advance its scholarly mission and improve programming.
Purchases and Financial Information
When you make a purchase (e.g., membership dues, conference registration), payment information is processed securely through third-party vendors compliant with Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards. SSWR retains only limited payment details (e.g., last four digits of a card) for recordkeeping and refund purposes.
Cookies and Website Technologies
SSWR uses cookies and similar technologies to:
- Maintain secure login sessions
- Improve website functionality and performance
- Understand user engagement and trends
Third-party service providers may also use cookies or tracking technologies to support analytics or communications. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings, though some site features may be limited if cookies are disabled.
Social Media and Third-Party Platforms
SSWR websites may include links or integrations with social media platforms. Your interactions with these features are governed by the privacy policies of those third parties. SSWR does not control how external platforms collect or use your data.
How SSWR Shares Information
SSWR does not sell personal information. We share data only in limited circumstances necessary to fulfill our mission and operations:
- Member Verification: To confirm membership status for professional or institutional purposes
- SSWR Programs and Leadership: To facilitate participation in committees, leadership roles, or scholarly initiatives
- Service Providers: With trusted vendors who assist with operations such as event management, communications, data analysis, or payment processing
- Research and Professional Outreach: In limited cases, SSWR may share member contact information (primarily postal addresses) with vetted organizations for research or professional opportunities aligned with SSWR’s mission
Email addresses are not released to third parties. Approved communications may be distributed on behalf of partners through SSWR-controlled systems.
Users may opt out of certain data sharing and communications through their member profile or by contacting SSWR directly.
SSWR may also disclose information when required by law or to protect the rights, safety, and integrity of the organization.
Data Security
SSWR implements reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information. Access to personal data is limited to authorized personnel and service providers who require it to perform their responsibilities. Sensitive data is encrypted and stored securely.
Accessing and Updating Your Information
Members and users may review, update, or correct their personal information by accessing their SSWR account or contacting SSWR directly. You may also update communication preferences or request assistance with account access.
Communications
Based on your engagement with SSWR, you may receive:
- Information about membership benefits, research opportunities, and programs
- Conference and event updates
- Renewal notices related to membership status (non-optional service communications)
- Occasional information about relevant third-party opportunities aligned with SSWR’s mission
You may opt out of non-essential communications at any time using unsubscribe links or account settings.
No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All other categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
Data Retention
SSWR retains personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected, comply with legal obligations, and support organizational operations. When no longer needed, data is securely deleted or de-identified.
International Users (Including EEA)
For users located in the European Economic Area (EEA), SSWR processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
You may have rights to:
- Access, correct, or delete your personal data
- Restrict or object to processing
- Request data portability
- Withdraw consent where applicable
- File a complaint with a relevant data protection authority
To exercise these rights, contact SSWR using the information below.
Changes to This Policy
SSWR may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Updates will be posted on our website, and we may notify users of significant changes. Continued use of SSWR services indicates acceptance of the updated policy.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or SSWR’s data practices, please contact SSWR at info@sswr.org.