Every year, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) opens applications for emerging social work scholars dedicated to reducing health disparities among populations with historically limited access to mental and behavioral health services.
The scholarship, known as the Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) supports the mission of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) to see that people with, affected by, or at risk for mental health and substance use conditions receive care, achieve well-being, and thrive.
This year, University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) student Crystal Campbell, currently enrolled in the College’s fully online DSW program, will be a recipient of the Doctoral MFP.
The award validates years of Campbell’s professional practice while also providing resources and network opportunities that will advance her research and impact.
“When I learned I had been selected, I was humbled and honestly a little in shock,” said Campbell. “The fellowship is so prestigious, and to be chosen from such a competitive group felt like a tremendous validation of the work I’ve done and the research I hope to carry forward.”
Campbell has worked for 17 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and currently owns her own private practice based in North Carolina. She is both a BSW Practicum Coordinator and Child Welfare Education Collaborative Coordinator at North Caroline State University.
She also serves as co-chair of the CSWE Women’s Council, and helps guide initiatives that encourage and promote inclusive leadership. One of those initiatives is “From Intimidation to Inspiration”, which is a connect session that will be held at this year’s CSWE conference in Denver. It provides support for de-mystifying the writing process for women in social work education.
Following a tradition of research and practice excellence, Campbell’s selection into the program follows Joelisse Galarza, DSW (class of 2025) who was among last year’s CSWE recipients of the Doctoral MFP.
Campbell credits the support she’s received at CoSW with providing the foundation her recognition. “The support I’ve had at UK has been invaluable,” she said. “Faculty mentors and colleagues have created a challenging but affirming environment that has allowed me to grow in ways I never expected.”
