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Riya and Richa side by side smiling

Side by Side: Riya and Richa Patel Graduate as Trailblazers of UK’s MSCJ Program 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — For best friends Riya and Richa Patel, pursuing a graduate degree wasn’t part of a long-planned path. It was a casual conversation between work shifts—one that transformed into a life-changing decision. Now, as members of the first graduating cohort of the University of Kentucky’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program, they’re walking across the finish line—together. 

The sisters-in-spirit, who met as kids and grew closer through school and shared life experiences, found themselves drawn to UK’s newly launched MSCJ program for different reasons. For Richa, it was a stepping stone to law school. For Riya, it was a way to expand her career in criminal justice with a focus on issues like human trafficking and child exploitation. 

“We didn’t originally plan to do this together,” Riya said. “But once we started talking about it, everything fell into place. It just made sense.” 

While the MSCJ program is fully online, the pair made a point to keep the experience personal—and communal. From late-night calls to discussion post reminders and peer-editing papers, their shared journey was marked by accountability, encouragement, and more than a few text exchanges. 

“I’d forget to post something, and Riya would message me, ‘Where’s your post?’” Richa laughed. “It’s those little things that made this program feel less isolating and more like a shared mission.” 

The academic rigor was real, with weekly papers, demanding work schedules, and heavy course loads, yet both students emphasized the program’s deeper impact on how they see justice, leadership, and their roles in creating change.

Classes like Administrative and Leadership Practices in Criminal Justice Organizations opened unexpected doors. Richa’s interview with a veteran homicide detective reshaped how she viewed law enforcement from a practitioner’s perspective. Riya’s conversation with a leader at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children solidified her aspirations for victim advocacy work. 

“These weren’t just classes—they were catalysts,” Richa said. “They challenged us to think differently, to think bigger.” 

As members of the inaugural MSCJ class, Riya and Richa have done more than earn a degree—they’ve helped shape the program and the next generation of justice-driven professionals.

“Being part of the first cohort feels really special,” Richa said. “We get to help shape what this experience can look like for others.” 

With graduation in sight, their futures are just beginning. Richa is preparing for the LSAT and law school, hoping to specialize in immigration or criminal defense. Riya is looking to deepen her work in child advocacy and anti-trafficking efforts. Both remain united by a shared vision of service, justice, and impact. 

“We’re proud,” Richa said, “but in our family, this is just the beginning.” 

As they reflect on this milestone—one forged through resilience, sisterhood, and a few long walks from the library parking lot—they hope their story encourages others to find strength in community. 

“To future MSCJ students,” Riya said, “stay connected, stay curious, and don’t do it alone.” 

To learn more about the MSCJ program at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, visit https://online.uky.edu/masters/criminal-justice/mscj.  

Dr. Matt Moore with Army-MSW students 

Army–UK MSW Program Honors 2025 Graduating Cohort

 LEXINGTON — On April 18, 2025, the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) and the United States Army will recognize 27 graduating officers at a ceremony held at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. The event honors the accomplishments of the newest cohort to complete the Army-University of Kentucky Master of Social Work (MSW) program.

The 2025 graduating class includes 25 Active Duty Army officers, one Air Force officer, and one Army National Guard officer. Following graduation, these individuals will begin their post-graduate clinical internships with military and Veterans Affairs sites across the country as they work toward independent licensure as clinical social workers.

CoSW has partnered with the Department of Defense since 2016 to offer this specialized MSW program, which is designed to equip military social workers with the clinical skills necessary to meet the unique needs of service members and their families.

“This program is more than a degree—it’s a mission,” said Colonel Teresa Murray, director of the Army-UK MSW program. “Each graduate leaves here prepared to support our military community with the highest standard of clinical care. The collaboration with the University of Kentucky continues to be instrumental in helping us build a stronger, more resilient force.”

The Army-UK MSW is a full-time, 60-credit-hour program offered at the Army Medical Department Center and School at Fort Sam Houston. The curriculum is delivered in an accelerated format over 14 continuous months, with courses taught on-site at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston.

“As Kentucky’s flagship land-grant institution, we are proud to answer the call to serve those who serve,” said Jay Miller, CoSW dean. “The Army MSW program is an example of how academic institutions can contribute meaningfully to national readiness and wellness. We are honored to play a role in the journey of these remarkable individuals.”

To learn more about the Army-UK MSW program, visit https://socialwork.uky.edu/portal/sw/.

Albright to explore impact of law enforcement careers on children and families

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Rixie Albright, LCSW, CFRC, a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) candidate at the University of Kentucky, will present her research on Tuesday, April 29, at 4:00 p.m. ET as part of the 2025 Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars.

Her presentation, “What is the Impact of Being Raised in a Law Enforcement Family?” will focus on the often-overlooked emotional and developmental effects of law enforcement careers on the children of officers. While extensive research has examined trauma exposure and hypervigilance in officers themselves, Albright’s work emphasizes the need to understand the secondary trauma and family system disruptions that can accompany a law enforcement lifestyle.

Through her capstone, Albright proposes early and continuous wellness education for both officers and their families—starting in the academy and extending throughout the career—to better equip families to manage stressors, maintain healthy relationships, and foster resilience in children.

With over 24 years of clinical experience, Albright currently serves as Director of First Responder Wellness and Resiliency at Premier Psychiatric Services in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She is also a Certified First Responder Counselor and a contract support service member for Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), in addition to serving as Clinical Director for Louisiana’s Post Critical Incident Seminar.

The Virtual Showcase is free and open to the public. Select sessions offer CE credit.

Deanne Woods will present research on barriers to employment at upcoming virtual showcase

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Deanne L. Woods, MSW, MA, a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) candidate at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, will present her research on Monday, April 28, at 2:30 p.m. ET during the 2025 Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars.

Her presentation, “Exclusion to Empowerment: Addressing Systemic Barriers in Employment for Ethnic Minorities with Developmental Disabilities,” will examine the ways in which racism, ableism, and colonial legacies intersect to create persistent barriers to employment for individuals at the margins of race and disability.

Woods’ work draws on Critical Disability Theory and Anti-Colonialism Theory to frame a justice-oriented response to hiring discrimination, lack of cultural responsiveness, and limited workplace accommodations. Her research highlights the far-reaching consequences these challenges impose not just on individuals, but on families and communities.

Proposing solutions at the policy, organizational, and community levels, Woods will share strategies including inclusive hiring practices, culturally competent training for employers, and systemic reforms that strengthen disability rights protections. The session is designed for academics, practitioners, and policymakers committed to advancing workforce equity and social justice.

Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer for Rauch Core Services under RBR Alliance, Inc., Woods leads a multidisciplinary team focused on creating inclusive service delivery models for people with developmental disabilities. Her work integrates experience in psychology, human resources, and social work to tackle systemic inequities and champion culturally responsive solutions.

The Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars, hosted by UK’s College of Social Work from April 28–30, will feature more than 150 doctoral candidates presenting research that spans trauma-informed care, administrative leadership, health disparities, and beyond. Select sessions offer continuing education credits.

To learn more or see other candidates presentations, please visit: https://socialwork.uky.edu/portal/sw/virtual-showcase-of-dsw-scholars-2025.

Carey to present model for expanding clinical trial access among Black cancer patients

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Deborah Carey, CSW, OSW-C, a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) candidate at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, will present her research project during the 2025 Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars on Monday, April 28, at 2:30 p.m. ET.

Her session, “Leveraging Social Work’s Superpowers to Build Physician Networks that Encourage Oncology Clinical Trial Referrals for Black Patients,” will explore an innovative program model designed to address disparities in cancer clinical trial access. Carey’s work stems from her personal and professional commitment to increasing Black patient representation in research—a critical issue given the disproportionate cancer mortality rates experienced by Black Americans.

While implicit bias has been widely studied as a barrier to clinical trial referrals, Carey’s research focuses on barriers reported by community physicians, who often serve as the primary care providers for Black patients. These include limited awareness of trial opportunities, fear of losing patient contact, and lack of referral infrastructure. Her model proposes using the relationship-building skills foundational to social work practice to establish trust-based networks between researchers and community physicians.

Carey, who brings over 27 years of experience in children’s mental health, hospice, and oncology care, currently serves as Quality and Education Coordinator for the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center Affiliate Network. She is a certified oncology social worker and co-moderator of the Association of Oncology Social Work’s online forum.

The Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars, hosted by UK’s College of Social Work from April 28–30, features over 150 doctoral candidates presenting applied research across topics such as health equity, trauma-informed care, and leadership in practice. Select sessions offer CE credits.

Hamilton to present tools for identifying harmful policies impacting gender-diverse youth

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Meredith “Brooke” Hamilton, LCSW/S, LISW-CP/S, a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) candidate at the University of Kentucky, will present her capstone research on Monday, April 28, at 9:00 a.m. ET during the 2025 Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars.

Her presentation, “Applying Critical Theory, Minority Stress Theory, and Mental Health Outcomes of Gender-Affirming Care for Gender-Diverse Youth to Identify and Interrupt Harmful Policy for Clinicians,” explores the damaging impact of restrictive legislation on gender-affirming care. Drawing from Critical Theory and Minority Stress Theory, Hamilton demonstrates how clinicians can use an ethically grounded framework to recognize and respond to harmful policies.

Despite growing evidence that gender-affirming care improves mental health outcomes for gender-diverse youth, policy efforts to limit access continue to accelerate. In response, Hamilton has developed two practitioner tools—rooted in the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics—that enable clinicians to identify and interrupt harmful policies at both micro and macro levels.

A clinical social worker, supervisor, and founder of Centered Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Hamilton brings years of experience in community mental health, private practice, and advocacy to her work. Her research aims to empower practitioners to bridge clinical practice and policy advocacy in ways that honor the profession’s values while reducing harm to marginalized communities.

The Virtual Showcase is free and open to the public. Select sessions offer CE credit.

University of Kentucky College of Social Work announces spring 2025 showcase of DSW scholars

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is pleased to announce the 4th Annual Showcase of Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Scholars, set for April 28–30, 2025.

This three-day virtual event will feature over 150 scholar-practitioners presenting innovative research addressing critical challenges in social work, including mental health, trauma-informed care, education, healthcare, gerontology, military social work, and social justice.​

Registration for this event is complimentary for all participants. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn continuing education credits by engaging in the scholars’ showcases. Registration opens on April 21. To receive an email notification when registration becomes available, please sign up for “DSW Showcase and News” here.

“Our DSW candidates are at the forefront of addressing complex societal issues,” said Dr. Laura Escobar-Ratliff, Director of the DSW Program and Clinical Assistant Professor. “Their dedication and innovative approaches are shaping the future of social work, and this showcase provides a platform to share their impactful work with the broader community.”​

For additional details about the DSW Scholars Showcase, including a preview of upcoming presentations and insights into the DSW program, visit: https://socialwork.uky.edu/portal/sw/academics/dsw-program/scholar-showcase/.

Group of happy teenage students using laptop, working on university assignment homework project in college library

Instructional Designers Earn APPQMR Certification, Advancing Commitment to Quality Online Learning

Lexington, Ky. — Caitlin Gordon and Danielle Noonan, instructional designers at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), recently earned their Applying the Quality Matters Rubric (APPQMR) certification. The accomplishment strengthens the College’s leadership in developing high-quality, accessible online learning experiences.

Instructional designers collaborate with subject matter experts to create meaningful courses that support all types of learners. “Our expertise is not in a specific content area, but in understanding how people learn and make meaning from experiences,” Noonan explained. “We help protect the integrity of a subject matter expert’s knowledge while advocating for the cognitive accessibility and engagement of the learner.”

Gordon added, “Instructional designers create engaging learning experiences and educational materials. Our work is crucial because it helps make content meaningful and accessible to all types of learners.”

Both pursued the APPQMR certification to deepen their expertise. “Quality Matters is well-known in our field as an authority on excellence in course design,” Noonan shared. “The College has shown a real commitment to having a high-quality design team that supports its professors in making some of the best courses and programs in the nation.”

Gordon noted, “This process deepened my understanding of what it takes to build a quality online course, especially how critical it is to align module-level objectives with the overall course learning objectives.”

The CoSW’s emphasis on instructional design quality is well established. In 2023, the Online Master of Social Work (MSW) program became one of the first in the nation to earn Quality Matters Program Certification, recognizing the program’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in online learning.

For Noonan, the certification reinforces best practices and builds confidence. “It creates space for internal peer reviews and member-checking when trying new approaches. Having rubrics and a shared language really centers the learner when important design choices need to be made.”

Noonan also highlighted the importance of maintaining standards in an increasingly crowded online space. “The online space is saturated with poor course design packaged in pretty interfaces. Quality Matters provides a framework that allows creative design while holding designers accountable to universal design and alignment between goals, materials, and assessment.”

Gordon shared that the certification will help her more easily identify issues during development and maintain focus on student success.

Noonan’s biggest takeaway? “Excellence doesn’t happen by just doing well over and over again. Excellence happens when people make informed choices and adapt. Quality Matters emphasizes continuous improvement — there’s always space to take in feedback and challenge assumptions.”

A year after prestigious scholarship, student reflects on impact

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.

Amidst a year of tragedy, School Social Worker honored for leadership and resilience 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — On September 4, 2024, the Apalachee High School community faced an unimaginable tragedy. The loss of students and educators in a school shooting left an indelible mark on the district, challenging students, teachers, and staff to navigate grief, recovery, and resilience. 

For Laura Etheridge, a school social worker at Apalachee High School, the past year has been one of deep reflection and unwavering commitment to supporting her community. In recognition of her efforts, Etheridge has been named School Social Worker of the Year for the State of Georgia by the School Social Workers Association of Georgia (SSWAG). 

“As educators, we prepare for emergencies, but when tragedy strikes, it reshapes both our professional and personal lives,” Etheridge reflected. “This past year has been about healing, supporting our students and staff, and ensuring no one navigates this alone.” 

Etheridge, a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), has been at the forefront of helping students process trauma, rebuild connections, and find stability in the wake of crisis. 

Her dedication to student well-being and access to education defined her career. A first-generation American and daughter of Mexican-immigrant parents, she began her professional journey as a bilingual medical social worker before transitioning to school social work, where she now focuses on connecting students with critical resources, strengthening school-family relationships, and advocating for student-centered policies. 

“This award represents more than just an achievement—it is a testament to my parents’ hard work and sacrifices,” Etheridge said. “My goal has always been to help students thrive, no matter the challenges they face. It’s an honor to follow in the footsteps of incredible school social workers who have received this recognition before me.” 

Etheridge recalls that from an early age, her parents emphasized the importance of education, despite not having access to it themselves. 

“I believe I was meant to be a social worker,” she said. “The ability to understand others’ experiences, to listen, and to advocate for those in need is something I have carried with me my entire life.” 

Her work has also been influenced by her experience in the UK DSW program, which she credits with equipping her with research-based strategies and leadership skills to enhance her work in the field. 

“The social work profession is more important than ever,” Etheridge said. “The UK DSW program has given me the confidence, education, and skills to continue making a difference. The relationships I’ve built with faculty and fellow students have been invaluable in both my professional and personal journey.” 

Looking ahead, Etheridge hopes to extend her impact beyond direct practice, mentoring future social workers and helping prepare the next generation of professionals. 

“I would love the opportunity to teach. Representation matters, and I believe my journey can inspire others to pursue this field.” 

This recognition comes during National Social Work Month, a time to honor those who dedicate their careers to supporting individuals, families, and communities. The UK College of Social Work proudly celebrates Laura Etheridge and all professionals making a lasting impact in the field. 

As part of this recognition, Etheridge will present her work at the CoSW 2025 Showcase of DSW Scholars, held virtually from April 28–30. Her presentation, “Creating Trauma-Informed Environments in Schools for Newcomer Students: A School Social Work Approach,“ will explore strategies for fostering supportive learning environments for students who have experienced displacement and trauma. This annual event highlights the capstone projects of the DSW graduating class of 2025, offering a platform for scholars to share their research and contributions to the field. Attendees will also have the opportunity to earn continuing education (CE) credits by participating in the showcase.