The dean of the Brown School, Shanti Khinduka, recognized the potential of these ideas to reshape thinking about public policy and invited Sherraden to serve as director of the new Center for Social Development (CSD). The center would focus on asset-building and other social development research.
Several years after its founding in 1994, CSD designed and implemented the American Dream Demonstration, the first systematic test of asset-building policy in the United States. In subsequent years, CSD has broadened its focus. One major area of research is civic engagement and service, including a body of work in productive aging.
Since its founding, CSD has authored more than 250 publications, including its working paper series, research and policy reports, and Congressional testimonies. CSD has grown to more than 10 full-time staff, over 30 faculty associates, and 30 to 40 graduate student research assistants.