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University of Kentucky College of Social Work to Participate in Social Work Lobby Day 

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) invites students to participate in Social Work Lobby Day on February 25, 2025, at the Kentucky State Capitol. This event provides social work and criminal justice students with a unique opportunity to engage with Kentucky’s legislative processes, understand their impacts on citizens, and connect with advocates, legislators, and fellow social workers dedicated to advancing social justice.

To support student participation, CoSW is chartering a bus to transport students to and from Frankfort. Students who register and indicate they will ride the bus should meet at the bus loop off Avenue of Champions (across from Memorial Coliseum and in front of the Bowman Statue) no later than 7:00 AM. The bus will return to campus by 5:30 PM.

Registrants will receive additional information before the event. Lunch will be provided at no cost to students, and those without an on-campus parking permit can receive a voucher to park in Structure #5 on South Limestone. 

Students can participate for the event by registering here.

What to Expect on Lobby Day: 

  • 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Meet with legislators, observe committee meetings, and tour the Capitol. UK College of Social Work faculty will be present to provide guidance and support. 
  • 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch in the Capitol Cafeteria (provided at no cost to students). 
  • 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: KY NASW Rally in the Rotunda – Celebrate the power of social work, advocacy, and self-advocacy as self-care at a rally featuring inspiring speakers and fellow advocates. 
  • 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Observe proceedings in the Kentucky House and Senate chambers. 

“This event provides an invaluable experience for students to see the legislative process in action and engage in meaningful discussions with policymakers,” said Kayla Powell, Director of Student Engagement and Experience (SEE) at CoSW. “Lobby Day brings to life the advocacy our criminal justice and social work graduates champion every day.”

For more information, contact Kayla Powell, Director of Student Experience & Engagement, at kayla.powell@uky.edu

Faculty publishes open-access handbook, supports recently admitted DSW students 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Priscilla Llamosa (formerly Norris), faculty member at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), has published an open-source book, Handbook for the Recently Admitted: A Practical Guide for the University of Kentucky’s Doctor of Social Work Students. The book was published by the University of Kentucky Libraries and funded by the Open Educational Resources (OER) Grant. 

The inspiration for the handbook came from Llamosa’s unique perspective as both a graduate of the program and a faculty member. “Joining these experiences through the scholarship of teaching and learning felt like a natural next step,” said Llamosa. The book seeks to address the distinct challenges of Doctor of Social Work (DSW) students, who engage in a community of learning rather than the traditional mentorship-based model characteristic of PhD programs. 

The handbook provides practical guidance and insights for new DSW students, offering valuable topics such as writing strategies, self-care, and effective collaboration with peers.  

Llamosa highlights Chapter One as particularly significant, as it demystifies doctoral education and normalizes the anxiety students may experience when beginning their journey.  

“Historically, doctoral education has been perceived as elitist and unattainable for individuals with diverse backgrounds or full-time employment. This book helps level the playing field,” she added. 

The OER Grant played a crucial role in bringing the project to fruition. Llamosa was able to dedicate substantial time to writing and received invaluable support from OER grant manager Stephen Krueger. “His guidance was instrumental in navigating the publishing platform and ensuring the project’s success,” she said. 

Looking ahead, Llamosa is excited about the upcoming second edition of the handbook, expected to be published in Fall 2025. New content will include a chapter on mastering APA 7th edition, guidance on conceptualizing and writing the capstone project, and strategies for disseminating academic work through conferences and peer-reviewed journals. A notable addition will be a collaborative chapter with colleagues on the ethical use of generative AI in academic work. 

The handbook has already made a significant impact, being adopted as an official text for SW852 Introduction to Doctoral Studies.  

“This is an invaluable resource for our DSW students,” shared Dr. Laura Escobar-Ratliff, Director of the Doctor of Social Work Program at the College of Social Work. program. “It provides essential guidance while reinforcing our program’s commitment to accessibility, innovation, and student success. By demystifying doctoral education and fostering a strong learning community, this work helps ensure that students not only succeed but thrive in their academic journey with us.”  

To further promote the handbook, Llamosa plans to share it on LinkedIn and encourages its use among DSW students and faculty. The book is accessible via the UK OER LibGuides and OER Commons, ensuring ease of access for all students. 

For more information, visit the handbook online at: https://saalck.pressbooks.pub/dsw-handbook/ or view the OER Grant Awardee page at: https://libguides.uky.edu/oer/awardees

Dean S. Zafar Hasan College of Social Work Endowment Fund

Lexington, KY – The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is pleased to share the establishment of the Dean S. Zafar Hasan College of Social Work Endowment Fund. This fund honors the remarkable legacy of Dr. S. Zafar Hasan, a trailblazer in social work academia, a beloved Dean Emeritus of CoSW, and a champion for advancing social justice and equity.

“We stand on the shoulders of visionary leaders like Dean S. Zafar Hasan,” said Dr. Jay Miller, current dean of CoSW. “We are profoundly grateful to the Hasan family and remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring this fund both honors his extraordinary legacy and perpetuates his vision for a more just and equitable society.”

Hasan’s ability to recognize the intrinsic humanity and potential in others defined his approach to leadership and scholarship. His dedication to social work and education was unwavering, and his contributions continue to resonate within the College and beyond.

“This meaningful gesture not only celebrates his legacy but also reflects the College’s commitment to its students and to a culture of generosity and excellence,” stated Dr. S. Akbar Hasan, son of Dr. S. Zafar Hasan.

In 1958, Hasan earned his Doctor of Social Welfare from Columbia University. He began his career in Lucknow, India, where he led the Department of Social Work at Lucknow University and established the country’s first Ph.D. program in the discipline.

Reflecting on his father’s deep connection to education and the university, Akbar shared, “My father loved the University of Kentucky, the College of Social Work, and the people it served.”

Recruited to the University of Kentucky in 1970, Hasan served as Dean of CoSW for nearly 20 years. “On behalf of the Hasan family, I wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to the College of Social Work for establishing the Dean S. Zafar Hasan College of Social Work Endowment Fund in honor of our father,” Akbar noted. “He valued education deeply, and I know he would be profoundly honored by this enduring tribute.”

A visionary leader and dedicated mentor, Hasan played a pivotal role in advancing the College’s academic programs and fostering its commitment to social justice. Akbar emphasized, “The endowment fund is a testament to his ideals and serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact one individual can have on the lives of others.”

“Thank you for recognizing his contributions and for creating a lasting opportunity that will benefit generations of students to come,” Akbar concluded. “Our family will support the growth of the Endowment Fund.”

The Dean S. Zafar Hasan Endowment stands as a powerful tribute to his lifelong commitment to meaningful change, his belief in the inherent humanity of others, and his dedication to enabling future social work leaders with the tools to create lasting impact.

For more information about the Dean S. Zafar Hasan College of Social Work Endowment Fund or to contribute please visit our dedicated page on give.uky.edu.

Faculty receive UL1 Pilot Award, address gaps in postpartum care for women with gestational diabetes

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Dr. Aubrey Jones, an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), has been awarded the UL1 Pilot Award to lead a collaborative study examining gaps in postpartum care for women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with Dr. Karen, Roper, College of Medicine.  

Partnering with the University of Utah and the UK College of Medicine, their work aims to improve health outcomes for women at elevated risk for Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) and other long-term health complications following pregnancy. 

GDM, a condition defined as carbohydrate intolerance first diagnosed during pregnancy, is one of the most common pregnancy-related complications, affecting approximately 200,000 births annually in the United States.

Despite clinical recommendations from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for postpartum glucose screenings and mental health assessments, significant gaps in care persist. 

The Gestational Diabetes Aftercare and Postpartum Screening (GAPS) Study will address these gaps through three primary objectives: 

  • Assessing Postpartum Care Trends — Conducting chart reviews to examine rates of T2DM and mental health screenings within the postpartum year and up to three years postpartum, as well as follow-up primary care utilization. 
  • Understanding Patient Barriers — Conducting interviews with women who did and did not receive postpartum care to identify barriers and facilitators to screening. 
  • Provider Perspectives — Surveying healthcare providers to explore attitudes, barriers, and facilitators to delivering optimal postpartum care. 

“Supporting women’s health—particularly reproductive health—has been at the core of my research for years,” said Jones. “Gestational diabetes not only impacts women during pregnancy, but it sets the stage for lifelong health challenges if care is overlooked. This study seeks to understand why critical gaps persist and how we can ensure women get the care they need to thrive, not just in the short term, but for years to come.” 

Jones’ research builds on her broader work exploring postpartum care and digital health interventions. She has also been instrumental in mentoring emerging scholars through programs like the Research Scholars Program.   

This project is part of the Consortium of Rural States (CORES), a network of medical research institutions that work together to translate innovative research into improved patient care. This is also part of the larger National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences’ (NCATS) Clinical & Translational Science Award (CTSA) program.

Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number UL1TR001998. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. 

Dr. Laneshia Conner receives supplemental NIH funding, advances HIV prevention research

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 13, 2024) — Dr. Laneshia R. Conner, assistant professor at the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Social Work, has been awarded supplemental funding through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to further her critical research aimed at reducing HIV risk among older Black women.  

UK’s program is one of the founding NIH BIRCWH programs with recent funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) under the National Institute of Health (NIH). This funding supports Conner’s ongoing efforts to address an underserved public health need and aligns with NIH priorities for HIV/AIDS research. 

Conner’s project examines the feasibility and acceptability of Woman-2-Woman — a group-level HIV intervention designed for Black women aged 62 and older. This study seeks to better understand the behavioral factors and social contexts that impact HIV prevention within this demographic, ultimately aiming to reduce HIV risk behaviors and improve decision-making skills. 

“I am deeply appreciative of the continued support from both the institution and the NIH,” said Conner. “Older Black women are frequently underrepresented in research and interventions, despite the distinct challenges and risks they face. This supplemental funding will enable us to further refine and implement strategies that advance positive health outcomes.” 

The funding, part of Conner’s involvement with the Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women’s Health (BIRCWH) program, includes mentorship and training activities to advance her expertise. Additionally, the supplement will continue to support the development of a feasibility trial of the intervention. To date, participation in the BIRCWH program has yielded in several publications and presentations, and most recently, a scored- K01 application, supporting Dr. Conner on the pathway to research independence. 

This recognition follows a series of achievements highlighting Conner’s research excellence. Last year, she was honored by the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) for her scholarly contributions. Her article, “Black Experiences Matter: Reflections on Black Faculty Interactions with Black Administrators,” co-authored with Yarneccia Dyson (NC State University), V. Nikki Jones (Spalding University), and Vanessa Drew Branch (Elon University), was featured in the Journal of Social Work Education.  

Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number K12DA035150. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

COL Lataya E. Hawkins promoted to Full Colonel, honored for leadership and excellence in social work

SAN ANTONIO, TX. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is proud to announce the promotion of COL Lataya E. Hawkins, Ph.D., LCSW-S, BCD, to the rank of full colonel in the United States Army, placing her among an elite group of only 10 full colonel social workers in the Army.

The milestone is a testament to COL Hawkins’ exemplary service, which spans 34 years and includes a deployment to Iraq in 2007. Her career reflects a deep commitment to leadership, scholarship, and service, particularly in the areas of moral injury and moral distress, where she has co-authored several articles.

“COL Hawkins’ unwavering dedication to the military, social work profession, and her community has left an indelible mark,” said Matt Moore, associate dean at CoSW. “We are fortunate to have her expertise, mentorship, and leadership shaping the next generation of social workers.”

Currently, COL Hawkins serves as the associate dean of the graduate school at the Army Medical Center of Excellence (MEDCoE) and as an assistant professor in the Army-UK Master of Social Work (MSW) Program. In her role, she oversees the academic success of future military social workers and mentors students as they prepare to serve service members, their families, and military retirees.

The Army-UK MSW Program, a collaborative initiative between the University of Kentucky and the U.S. Army, educates more than two-thirds of all new social workers entering active-duty Army each year. The program plays a vital role in maintaining the readiness and well-being of military personnel and their families, ensuring they receive the care and support they need.

COL Hawkins’ career path began with her enlistment in the U.S. Army National Guard in 1990. Today, she holds a Ph.D. in social work and certifications as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor and a Board Certified Diplomate in clinical social work. Despite her professional accomplishments, she cites her most important roles as being a wife to her husband, Deric Hawkins, for 15 years, and mother to their daughters, Gabrielle and Destinee.

The University of Kentucky College of Social Work extends heartfelt congratulations to COL Hawkins for her well-deserved promotion and recognition. Her dedication continues to inspire students, faculty, and colleagues across the social work and military communities.

“I’m So Glad I Listened.” Dr. Stephanie Ratliff Reflects on graduation from the College’s PhD program

Lexington, KY – Dr. Stephanie Ratliff’s journey has been defined by a deep sense of place and purpose. 

Growing up in a beautiful holler in Knott County, Ratliff now finds herself on the cusp of an incredible milestone. On Friday, December 20th, she will walk across the stage at UK’s commencement, wearing a new stole to symbolize the completion of her PhD

“I feel like I’ve really come into my own,” Ratliff shared, reflecting on her experience over in social work and higher education. “When I graduated with my BASW, I knew so little about the complexities of human suffering. Now, I see the world differently. I’m learning where compassion, action, and mentorship intersect.” 

From Social Worker to Scholar 

Ratliff’s early career as a social worker exposed her to the hidden realities of intimate partner violence (IPV)—an issue that would become central to her doctoral research.  

“When I first started out, IPV was often hidden behind other challenges like housing instability or addiction. I didn’t realize how pervasive it was,” she recalled. Over time, Ratliff’s awareness grew, and her dissertation explored how better data collection on IPV could lead to more funding and support for survivors. 

“Social work teaches you to be brave and use your voice,” Ratliff said. “Research is a way to advocate for those who often go unheard. It’s about finding the courage to speak up and take risks.” 

Empowering the Next Generation 

As Director of Field Education, Ratliff oversees the final stage of social work students’ training, ensuring they are ready for the challenges of the profession. “Field education is where everything comes together,” she explained. “It’s not just about skill-building; it’s about creating space for students to reflect, grow, and learn from both successes and mistakes.” 

Supervision, she emphasized, is essential in this process. “It’s where we slow down, reflect, and ask, ‘What worked? What could have been done differently?’ That’s how we grow as practitioners and human beings.” Field placements, Ratliff noted, are also a vital bridge to employment. “Many students are offered jobs where they’ve interned, which is critical in a field that’s perpetually understaffed.” 

Looking Ahead 

For Ratliff, the journey to earning her Ph.D. was more than an academic pursuit—it was a calling. “I tried to push it away, but it kept coming back to me. I’m so glad I listened. This work gives my life meaning. It’s part of why I’m here.  Through earning a Ph.D. I have learned how to contribute differently.” 

As she prepares to graduate, Ratliff envisions the continued growth of the Field Education program driven by purpose, innovation, and action. Her goals include increasing research practicum opportunities, advocating for student compensation in field placements, and embedding social justice into graduate education. 

“Social work is everywhere,” she said. “With placements in every state, we’ve hit a major milestone. Now, we’re building on that momentum—working with alumni, agencies, and community partners to create new opportunities for social workers in essential spaces.” 

This December, as Ratliff crosses the stage, she will celebrate more than her achievement—she’ll carry forward her vision to empower others and transform lives. “Social work is about solutions, not perfection,” she said. “And we have the tools to figure it out.” 

Dean Jay Miller Announces $1 Million Scholarship Gift Honoring Brian Reber’s Legacy

LEXINGTON, Ky. — College of Social Work (CoSW) Dean Jay Miller announced Tuesday a $1 Million donation to support students. The gift, which was made by Kathy Purcell of Paducah, Kentucky, establishes the Brian M. Reber Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship, which honors Purcell’s late son, intends to ease financial hardships for students pursuing careers in social work.

Reber, a 1991 graduate of UK’s College of Social Work, was known for his warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication to helping others. After college, he worked at a shelter for unhoused communities in California, where he was one of the few employees with a college degree. His compassion, informed by his education, left an indelible mark on colleagues and clients alike. Tragically, Brian passed away from cancer in 2020.

For Purcell, establishing the scholarship was an act of both remembrance and purpose.

“Friends of Brian tell me if they were having a bad day and happened to see him, they always left feeling better.” said Kathy. “He was caring, and he had a great sense of humor. I think he would be very happy with the scholarship.”

Purcell, herself a model of service during her 35-year nursing career, has always understood the importance of lending a hand. Her colleagues describe her as a tireless advocate for her patients, a role she fulfilled with equal parts expertise and empathy. Those same values now underpin her philanthropy.

“Kathy Purcell is one of the most purpose driven, pragmatic people I’ve met,” shared Dean Miller. “She truly cares about supporting students and empowering them to create meaningful change in their communities.”

And the Brian M. Reber Memorial Scholarship Fund will provide that support.

The fund is deliberately structured to view students as more than their grades and test scores. Scholarships will be awarded to those who demonstrate resilience and dedication in their personal and professional pursuits.  

Kathy said she’s aware that many students work while going to college, which can make it harder to maintain the top grades.

Purcell hopes her example will inspire others to contribute to causes they care about. Her decision to invest in education, she says, comes down to a simple truth: helping others succeed.

For more information about the Brian M. Reber Memorial Scholarship or to learn how to support the College of Social Work, contact Ramla Miller, Philanthropy Director, via email at Ramla.Miller@uky.edu or cell at 901-378-0610.

College of Social Work to host free virtual CEU lunch and learn on social work and criminal justice

LEXINGTON, KY – As part of its yearlong celebration of the 50th anniversary of BASW accreditation, the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is proud to announce a virtual CEU Lunch & Learn on January 17, 2025, from 12:00-2:00 PM EST

The event, inspired by the College’s “Social Work is Everywhere” campaign, will feature engaging discussions led by Sara Baldwin, LCSW, a Mitigation Specialist and Forensic Social Worker, and Leah Wilson, an MSW student and intern at Sara Baldwin Mitigation Investigations. Together, they will delve into the critical intersections of social work and criminal justice. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the transformative role of social workers in forensic advocacy, criminal defense, and beyond. 

Keynote Speakers: 

Sara Baldwin, LCSW 
Sara Baldwin brings decades of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in criminal defense services. Known for her ability to combine biographical storytelling, social anthropology, and forensic social work, Sara has contributed to hundreds of cases across all levels of litigation, including pre-trial, post-conviction, and clemency in both state and federal courts. Her meticulous approach and proven track record have positioned her as a leader in mitigation services. 
 

Sara’s work was notably featured in The Marshall Project’s award-winning piece, “Mercy Workers,” which provides an in-depth look at the critical role of penalty mitigation specialists in the justice system. She has been instrumental in presenting nuanced life histories to judges and juries, shaping case outcomes through a human-centered lens. 

Leah Wilson, MSW student 
Leah Wilson, a native of North Florida, is a passionate social worker in her final semester of the University of Kentucky’s MSW program. Leah’s journey into social work began after five years as a psychiatric technician in juvenile settings, where she witnessed firsthand the need for systemic change. 

As a mitigation specialist intern under the guidance of Sara Baldwin, Leah has contributed to the prevention of the death penalty and the broader discourse on systemic reform within the criminal justice system. Her work emphasizes early intervention and the importance of addressing the structural factors underpinning incarceration. Leah’s story was recently featured on the College of Social Work’s website, underscoring her dedication to forensic advocacy and her belief in redemption. 

About the Event 

This event continues the celebration of the College of Social Work’s BASW accreditation milestone, showcasing the diverse and impactful roles social workers play in communities, institutions, and systems around the world. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in an interactive and educational discussion, earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for their participation. 

Registration Details: 
This event is free to attend, but registration is required. Zoom links will be provided upon registration. 

Learning Objectives and Additional Details 
 
Attendees will explore: 

  1. The role of social workers on interdisciplinary defense teams, highlighting their unique contributions to client advocacy. 
  1. Collaborative partnerships between social workers and lawyers in criminal defense, emphasizing their shared efforts to achieve justice for clients. 
  1. The integration of social workers with other forensic experts on criminal defense teams to provide comprehensive support and expertise. 

 Additionally, the presentation will include an overview of the history of the death penalty, offering critical context that will be woven throughout the discussion and Q&A session. 

Social Work faculty awarded for best article, preparing students to thrive in healthcare settings.

Lexington, KY (November 25, 2024) — The Journal of Teaching in Social Work announced the recipients of the Twelfth Annual Florence W. Vigilante Award, honored for their exemplary scholarship and contribution to the social work profession. The award, created in honor of the journal’s founding editor, Dr. Florence W. Vigilante, recognizes the best article published in the preceding year.

The 2024 winners are the coauthors of the article titled “Considerations in Preparing Social Work Students to Thrive in Health Care Settings”, published in Volume 43, Issue 1 (2023). The article explores a critical nexus of social work and health care, equipping future professionals to navigate the dynamic challenges of health-related settings while adhering to social work’s core values.

The article was coauthored by Sheila Barnhart, Abigail Latimer, Dr. Natalie Pope, and Dr. Kalea Benner. Their work highlights the importance of integrating social work principles with the bio-medical model prevalent in health care settings, offering an innovative pathway to reconcile these approaches through an integrated Behavioral Health model.

“Social workers are increasingly embedded in health care teams, making this article an invaluable resource for preparing students to thrive in this environment,” said Editor-in-Chief, Vicki Lens. “The authors have successfully demonstrated how a thoughtful curriculum can bridge the gap between the values of the profession and the demands of the bio-medical model.”

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

  • Dr. Kalea Benner, former associate dean of academic and student affairs and Doris Y. Wilkinson Distinguished Professor in Social Work Education at CoSW, was instrumental in advancing the academic structure of the college. Benner is now the dean of the Indiana University School of Social Work. During her time at CoSW, she laid a strong foundation for her successor, Dr. Matt Moore, who now oversees this critical role.
  • Dr. Natalie Pope, director of the PhD program at CoSW, is a leader in academic innovation and mentorship. Her dedication to research excellence and mentoring has strengthened the college’s reputation for producing top-tier scholars.
  • Abigail Latimer is a palliative clinical social worker at UKHC and assistant professor at CoSW. Latimer is currently co-leading Kentucky’s first Hospital Point in Time Count project, a community health initiative aimed at addressing critical housing needs among vulnerable populations.
  • Dr. Sheila Barnhart is an assistant professor at CoSW. Her teaching and research focus on the intersection of trauma, mental health, and the integration of social work practice in medical settings. Dr. Barnhart brings over two decades of field experience to her work, specializing in addressing the complex needs of individuals and families navigating health care systems.

RECOGNITION AND ACCESS

In recognition of its outstanding contribution, the award-winning article has been made available as a free PDF download on the journal’s website at www.tandfonline.com/WTSW.

ABOUT THE AWARD

The Florence W. Vigilante Award honors the legacy of the journal’s founding editor and celebrates groundbreaking contributions to social work education. The award highlights the intersection of scholarship and practical application, recognizing articles that significantly advance the profession.For more information, visit the Journal of Teaching in Social Work at www.tandfonline.com/WTSW.