LEXINGTON, Ky. — It has been a year since Olivia Yearns, a doctoral candidate in the University of Kentucky’s College of Social Work (CoSW) online Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) program, was named a recipient of the National Association of Black Social Workers’ (ABSW) Delois Whitaker-Caldwell Book Scholarship.
At the time, the recognition felt like both an affirmation and a call to action. Now, as she reflects on the past year, Yearns sees the award not just as a moment of validation, but as a milestone that has helped shape her trajectory as a scholar, therapist, and advocate.
“When I received the news, I was overwhelmed with gratitude,” Yearns said. “It wasn’t just about financial support—it was about feeling seen, about knowing that my work resonates within the broader community.”
For Yearns, who balances the demands of academia with running a private therapy practice, the scholarship represented a tangible investment in her vision. Specializing in mental health and therapeutic practices within Black communities, Yearns has long been committed to mental health care. Over the past year, she has continued to refine her research on the intersection of identity, decision-making, and well-being among Black women—a focus she says has deepened with time.
“The scholarship came at a pivotal moment,” she said. “It allowed me to invest in resources that enhanced my research. The work I’m doing isn’t just theoretical—it has real-world implications for the stability and well-being of Black communities.”
Yearns’ doctoral studies at CoSW have provided a space to sharpen her expertise while engaging with a network of scholars and practitioners who share her commitment to social change. But the journey has not been without its challenges. Balancing coursework, research, and professional obligations has required a level of resilience that she continues to cultivate.
“The past year has taught me a lot about endurance,” she said. “There’s an emotional weight to this work—navigating academia, advocating for marginalized communities, and maintaining a practice is a full plate. But I’ve learned that prioritizing my own well-being is not just necessary; it’s non-negotiable.”
Beyond her academic achievements, Yearns remains deeply engaged with the community. She mentors emerging social workers and advocates for greater accessibility in mental health care. These commitments, she says, have only strengthened in the wake of receiving the ABSW scholarship.
“There’s a responsibility that comes with recognition,” Yearns shared. “I want to ensure that the work I do translates into meaningful impact.”
Looking ahead, Yearns envisions herself as a thought leader in social work, particularly in advancing conversations around mental health and decision-making among Black women. The scholarship, she says, was one step in a larger journey—one that she intends to keep building upon.
“Change happens incrementally,” she reflected. “This past year has reinforced that every step forward, no matter how small, has value. And for me, that’s enough reason to keep moving.”
At the upcoming Showcase of DSW Scholars, Yearns will present her capstone project, “The Silent Influencers: What Drives Black Women to Choose Their Mates”. Her research offers a multidimensional analysis, combining a systematic literature review, a conceptual framework, and a practical application paper. Rooted in the Drive Alignment Framework, her work examines how the alignment of needs and values can empower Black women to make intentional relationship choices—decisions that not only foster healthier partnerships but also contribute to the stability and well-being of families and communities. Registration for the Showcase is forthcoming.
