Dr. Stephanie Ratliff of Knott County, Kentucky shares her journey from undergraduate to Ph.D, and Director of Field Education at CoSW.
Brian was known for his warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication to helping others. This scholarship is a way to carry forward the spirit of his legacy.
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Dr. Shericka Smith, a distinguished alumna of the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), has been awarded the Lyman T. Johnson Torch of Excellence Award
The University of Kentucky’s Center of Excellence in Rural Health in Hazard, KY, plays a critical role in supporting students balancing higher education with community commitments. Jessica Williamson, a Hazard native and College of Social Work alumna, reflects on her experience as both a student and advisor at the Center. Her story sheds light on the resources available to rural students and the Center’s continued dedication to student success, even as many programs move online.
Willis Bright, a trailblazer and mentor known as “The Oracle,” has been inducted into the 2025 UK Alumni Association Hall of Distinguished Alumni. A 1966 CoSW graduate and the first African-American to earn the Algernon Sullivan Medallion, his lifelong commitment to uplifting underrepresented communities inspires future generations.
Legendary Beginnings: Frances Jewell McVey In 1938, as the nation emerged from the Great Depression, the University of Kentucky (UK) Board of Trustees established its first Department of Social Work,
Olypmhia O’Neale-White, DSW alumna, was awarded by NASW for her leadership in social work.
DCBS Commissioner Lesa Dennis details her time in the MSW Program and how it helped elevate her both personally and professionally.
This post was originally published by News from the Blue – the UK Alumni Association blog.
As Dr. Jasmine Cohen-Young finishes up her time with the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), a journey that started with a basketball and a hoop culminates in a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW).
Gilpin recently earned her National Certified School Social Worker certification. So far, she’s the only person in Kentucky to achieve this and one of 30 in the entire country.
UK graduate Olivia Raley joins Bardstown Police as their first social worker, supported by her therapy Husky, Maverick.