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Virtual Showcase of DSW Scholars

University of Kentucky College of Social Work announces 5th Annual Showcase of DSW Scholars

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) will host the 5th Annual Showcase of DSW Scholars, a virtual event highlighting innovative research and practice solutions developed by doctoral candidates in the college’s Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program. 

Open registration for the showcase begins April 20, with presentations taking place April 27–29. The event will be held virtually, allowing social workers, students and community professionals from across the country to participate. Those interested in staying informed about the event can subscribe to the College’s email list at https://ukcosw.com/subscribe and select “DSW Showcase and News.”

The annual showcase provides a platform for DSW candidates to present their capstone projects and applied research addressing complex issues impacting individuals, families and communities. Topics often span areas such as mental health, trauma-informed practice, healthcare access, policy innovation and leadership in social services. 

This year’s event will feature over 200 DSW scholars presenting their capstone research through a series of interactive sessions designed to bridge research and real-world practice. 

“We are incredibly proud of our DSW scholars and the work they have put in to reach this milestone,” said Dr. Laura Escobar-Ratliff, director of the DSW program and clinical assistant professor. “The Showcase of DSW Scholars offers a unique opportunity for them to share meaningful, practice-informed work with the broader social work community while also contributing to continuing education opportunities for professionals in the field.” 

Participants attending the showcase will have the opportunity to earn free continuing education (CE) credits, supporting the ongoing professional development of social workers while expanding access to cutting-edge research and practice strategies. 

The virtual format reflects the college’s commitment to accessible learning and professional engagement, making it possible for practitioners nationwide to connect with the latest innovations in social work practice. Previous showcases have drawn hundreds of participants interested in advancing their knowledge and strengthening their impact in the field.  

The event is free and open to the public. 

 

Sarah Bennett Holmes Awardees Rhyan Banas and Aniyah Maxey hold their awards in front of SBH Balloon arch

Two from College of Social Work Named 2026 Sarah Bennett Holmes Awardees 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Two members of the University of Kentucky College of Social Work community have been recognized through the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards, one of the university’s most respected honors celebrating individuals who advance the well-being and leadership of women at UK and across the Commonwealth. 

This year’s honorees from the College of Social Work are: 

  • Rhyan Banas, recipient of the Staff Award 
  • Aniyah Maxey, recipient of the 30 Under 30 Award 

The honorees were recognized during today’s 2026 Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards Luncheon, held in the Gatton Student Center Grand Ballrooms. 

The Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards, established in 1994 by the University of Kentucky Wildcat Forum, recognize faculty, staff, students and teams who promote the growth and well-being through their work, leadership and service. 

The award is named for Sarah Bennett Holmes, a distinguished former dean of women at UK who championed the rights and advancement of women throughout her career. Widowed early in life, Holmes raised four children while completing her education before beginning a successful career at the university. She inspired generations of women to persevere through hardship and pursue their professional goals. Among her many accomplishments, Holmes developed work programs for women during the Great Depression. 

Today, the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards honor members of the UK community who reflect Holmes’ enduring legacy of advocacy, leadership and empowerment. 

Rhyan Banas – Staff Award 

Rhyan Banas serves as Academic Project Manager at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, where she leads the coordination and execution of complex academic, research and administrative initiatives. Her work spans multiple units, supporting strategic priorities, program accreditation and operational alignment across the college. 

In her role, Banas oversees projects from planning through completion, managing timelines, budgets and compliance requirements while coordinating multidisciplinary teams. She navigates complex logistics—including university compliance requirements and cross-functional collaboration—ensuring initiatives are delivered efficiently and effectively. 

Banas works closely with faculty, staff and leadership to advance key priorities, helping align programs and projects with the college’s mission to strengthen communities and support students pursuing careers in social work and criminal justice. 

Through her commitment to collaboration, organization and service, Banas plays a vital role in driving initiatives that create meaningful impact across the college and the communities it serves. 

Aniyah Maxey – 30 Under 30 

Aniyah Maxey is a Bachelor of Social Work (BASW) student at the UK College of Social Work who has distinguished herself as a student leader committed to service, advocacy and community impact. 

Maxey is a Child Welfare Preparation (CW Prep) Scholar, preparing for a career supporting children and families involved in Kentucky’s child welfare system. Her dedication to service and leadership on campus has already earned her multiple recognitions, including the Lyman T. Johnson (LTJ) Torch of Excellence Award, which celebrates students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership and a commitment to advancing inclusion. 

Maxey’s work reflects a deep commitment to uplifting others and contributing to stronger systems of support for families and communities. The Sarah Bennett Holmes 30 Under 30 Award further recognizes her leadership and the positive impact she is making both within the university community and beyond. 

The College of Social Work congratulates both honorees for their leadership and contributions, which reflect the spirit of the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards and the ongoing work to empower women across the University of Kentucky community. 

Image of Step-Up volunteers in front of UK Building

UK research project explores impact of Step-Up program connecting college students with local schools

LEXINGTON, Ky. — A new research project at the University of Kentucky is examining the impact of the Step-Up Program, an interdisciplinary initiative that connects UK students with K–12 learners across Lexington through tutoring, mentoring and service learning.

The project brings together faculty from UK’s College of Social Work, Department of History and Department of Teaching and Learning to explore how participation in Step-Up benefits both the university students who serve as Step-Up Fellows and the schools and community organizations where they work.

The research focuses on how service-learning experiences prepare UK students for future academic and professional goals while strengthening connections between the university and local partners.

Step-Up mobilizes undergraduate and graduate students — known as Step-Up Fellows — to provide individualized and small-group tutoring to K–12 students across Lexington. Fellows work with schools and community organizations to support reading, STEM subjects and other core academic areas while gaining hands-on experience in mentoring and problem-solving.

“Programs like Step-Up create meaningful opportunities for students to apply what they are learning in the classroom while supporting educational outcomes in our own community,” said Dr. Cherra Mathis, Ph.D., assistant professor in the College of Social Work and one of the faculty collaborators on the project. “Our research seeks to better understand how these experiences shape student preparedness and strengthen partnerships between the university and local organizations.”

Mathis’ research connects closely to Step-Up’s longstanding work supporting English Language Learners and community organizations serving newcomer families in Lexington. Although the program has expanded to support a wide range of students in local schools, it originally grew from efforts to support immigrant youth and continues to maintain strong connections with Lexington’s international community.

“As someone who benefitted from service-learning opportunities as a student, I value programs that connect academic learning with real community needs,” Mathis shared.

The Step-Up program is directed by Dr. Francis Musoni in the UK Department of History, who has led the initiative for several years and helped expand its partnerships across Lexington schools and community organizations.

“Kentucky’s immigrant population has grown rapidly in recent decades, bringing tremendous energy and diversity to communities like Lexington, but also new educational needs,” said Musoni. “The Step-Up program was created to help address these needs by connecting UK students with English Language Learners in local schools. As we begin a comprehensive evaluation of the program, early evidence suggests that Step-Up is creating meaningful benefits for both immigrant and refugee students and for UK students who gain invaluable community-engaged learning experiences.”

STEP UP has been supported through the Provost’s Institutional Multidisciplinary Paradigm to Accelerate Collaboration and Transformation (IMPACT) awards and is currently supported by the UK Women & Philanthropy Network and individual donors.

Through the program, many fellows have gone on to pursue graduate study and careers in law, policy, education and international work.

The program’s reach continues to expand. During the 2024–25 academic year, more than 800 K–12 students received tutoring and mentoring through Step-Up services, while 138 UK students served as Step-Up Fellows. Fellows were placed at four high schools and six community organizations throughout the Lexington area.

Students involved in the program also present their work at regional and national conferences, sharing insights about service-learning, mentorship and community-engaged scholarship.

Mathis and her research collaborators aim to better understand how programs like Step-Up contribute to student development while investing in lasting connections.

Person looking at photo gallery

UK Criminal Justice event explores reentry through storytelling and photography 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work and Lewis Honors College will host an immersive event highlighting the lived experiences of individuals navigating reentry after incarceration, using storytelling and photography to foster dialogue and understanding. 

Titled “Reentry Through Their Lens: A Photovoice Experience,” the program will feature a curated photo gallery, opportunities for informal engagement and a panel discussion with four individuals who will share personal reflections on their reentry journeys. 

The event is grounded in Photovoice, a participatory research approach that empowers individuals to document their experiences through photography and guided dialogue. Through this process, participants capture meaningful moments from their lives and engage in structured conversations that deepen reflection and shared understanding. 

“Photovoice creates space for individuals to tell their own stories in ways that are both personal and powerful,” said Dr. Victoria Collins, director of the criminal justice programs. “By centering these perspectives, we can better understand the realities of reentry and the factors that shape it.” 

The panel will offer attendees an opportunity to hear directly from individuals with lived experience, exploring both the challenges and resilience involved in reentry. 

By elevating lived experiences, the event aims to foster connection, increase awareness and encourage meaningful dialogue around the structural and personal dynamics that influence reentry outcomes. 

The event is open to students, faculty, staff and community members. 

Registration is available at: https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eEQnpheqcuNgazA 

New graduate during Commencement Proceedings

College of Social Work celebrates first completions, second cohort of Substance Use Counseling Undergraduate Training Program 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is celebrating a milestone for its Substance Use Counseling Undergraduate Training Program, with the first students completing the program in Fall 2025 and a new cohort now enrolled for the upcoming academic cycle. 

Developed within the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) curriculum, the program equips students with specialized training in addiction counseling, preparing them to address one of Kentucky’s most pressing public health challenges.  

The training program provides targeted coursework and professional preparation focused on substance use disorders, treatment models, client engagement and community resource coordination. Upon completion, students become eligible to pursue Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor Associate I (CADCA I) recognition — an important milestone for those seeking careers in behavioral health and addiction counseling in Kentucky.  

For BASW Program Director Dr. Shelita Jackson, the program reflects a broader effort to connect classroom learning with real workforce needs across the Commonwealth. 

“Substance use recovery work requires compassion, preparation and a deep understanding of community systems,” Jackson said. “Our goal with this training program is to give students the knowledge, confidence and practical tools they need to step into these roles and make a meaningful difference.” 

Supporting Kentucky’s behavioral health workforce 

The program was developed in response to ongoing shortages in behavioral health professionals across Kentucky. By providing undergraduate students with early exposure to addiction counseling training, the program creates a pathway for graduates to begin supporting recovery services while continuing their professional development. 

15 students in Fall 2025 earned their certification, with 15 enrolled for the Spring 2026 cohort. 

For many participants, the training program serves as a bridge between academic preparation and real-world practice. 

Ta’Niya Rucker, a 2025 BASW graduate, completed the program as part of the inaugural cohort before graduating. She described the experience as a key step in preparing for her future in substance use recovery work. 

“The training program helped me focus on preparing for the CADCA I exam and gave me more confidence moving in the direction I want to go,” Rucker said in a previous interview. 

Alongside Rucker, BASW student Jadyn Gevedon also completed the program in Fall 2025 and earned her CADCA I certification. 

“The program has provided me with skills in understanding substance use and engaging with others that will support my future career in child welfare services,” Gevedon said. “I will carry this knowledge with me throughout every path I pursue.” 

For Jackson, the program’s growth reflects both student interest and the urgency of preparing more professionals to serve communities affected by substance use disorders. 

“This work is deeply personal for many of our students and communities,” Jackson said. “When students can begin building these skills during their undergraduate experience, they enter the workforce more prepared to support recovery and strengthen the systems that serve people across Kentucky.” 

Dean Miller with the UK Baseball team

College of Social Work invites community to KY Proud Park event

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work is inviting students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends to “take it back to the ballgame” for a night of community and celebration at the ballpark.

As part of the college’s recognition of National Social Work Month and National Criminal Justice Month, the College of Social Work will host a special outing at Kentucky Proud Park on Tuesday, March 31, when the Kentucky Wildcats baseball take on the Miami RedHawks baseball.

The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. EST and will feature several special moments celebrating the College of Social Work community. Advance registration is requested, and attendees can register online here.

Dean Jay Miller will throw the ceremonial first pitch to kick off the evening.

Fans attending the game can also stop by a special tabling experience hosted by the College’s Sport Social Work Research Lab. Student ambassadors and researchers will be on hand sharing information about the lab’s work at the intersection of athletics, mental health and community well-being, while distributing CoSW swag.

The evening is designed to bring the college community together in a relaxed, celebratory setting — blending America’s pastime with the values of connection, wellness and engagement that define the social work and criminal justice professions.

Guests can expect food, fun and opportunities to connect with students, faculty and supporters of the college while cheering on the Wildcats under the lights at Kentucky Proud Park.

Dean Miller posing with student Jordin Williams at the Annual Recognition Celebration

Nominations open for University of Kentucky College of Social Work student awards 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is inviting nominations for its annual student awards, recognizing outstanding achievement across academic excellence, leadership, experiential learning and service. Award recipients will be honored during the College’s 2026 Annual Recognition Celebration. 

All students registered for at least one course during the 2025–26 academic year are eligible to be nominated. CoSW faculty, staff, practicum supervisors and students may submit nominations here.
The deadline to nominate is May 1, 2026. 

“CoSW students are at the heart of everything we do,” said Dr. Kayla Powell, Director of Student Experience and Engagement. “These awards give us a meaningful way to recognize the students who are leading with integrity, showing up for their communities and representing the mission of the College in powerful ways.” 

Celebrating student excellence 

Each year, CoSW recognizes students at every level of study — from undergraduate to graduate and doctoral — as well as those demonstrating exceptional impact through hands-on learning and service. Award categories include: 

  • Outstanding Undergraduate Student — recognizes an undergraduate (BASW or BA/BSCJ) student who exemplifies excellence in academic achievement, leadership, experiential learning and commitment to the mission of CoSW. 
  • Outstanding Graduate Student — recognizes a graduate student (MSW or MSCJ) who exemplifies excellence in academic achievement, leadership, experiential learning and commitment to the mission of CoSW. 
  • Outstanding Doctoral Student — recognizes a doctoral student (DSW or Ph.D.) who exemplifies excellence in academic achievement, leadership and commitment to the mission of CoSW. 
  • Experiential Learning Student of the Year — honors a student demonstrating exceptional growth, initiative and impact through practicum, internships, service-learning, research or community engagement. 
  • Dean’s Outstanding Service Award — recognizes a student selected by the dean for exceptional service and meaningful contributions that enhance the student experience and strengthen the CoSW community. 

Recognizing leaders from 2025 

The College launched its student awards in 2025, celebrating recipients whose accomplishments reflect CoSW’s values and impact. At the 2025 Annual Recognition Celebration, Jordin Williams received the Dean’s Outstanding Service Award, recognized for service and leadership within the College community. Additional student honorees included Shawn Hunter (Outstanding Undergraduate Student), Brianna Hinton (Outstanding Graduate Student), Dr. Lila Elliott (Outstanding Doctoral Student) and Olivia Stanley (Experiential Learning Student of the Year). The College also recognized CPT Amanda Veen with the Army MSW Program Award. 

CoSW will continue that tradition in 2026 by recognizing students whose work reflects a holistic standard of excellence — including academic performance, leadership, commitment to the values of social work and criminal justice, service to the College or community, and professionalism and integrity. 

Submit a nomination 

CoSW faculty, staff and students are encouraged to submit nominations by May 1, 2026. Self-nominations are welcome. 

For questions about the nomination process, contact Dr. Kayla Powell, director of Student Experience and Engagement, at kayla.powell@uky.edu. 

People first, people always

UK College of Social Work celebrates National Social Work and Criminal Justice Month throughout March

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) will celebrate National Social Work Month and National Criminal Justice Month throughout March 2026 with a series of educational events, trainings, community celebrations and storytelling initiatives highlighting the critical role these professions play in supporting individuals, families and communities across Kentucky and beyond.

Programming throughout the month will engage students, alumni, faculty, staff and community partners through hands-on learning opportunities, continuing education, campus activations and public-facing events.

More information, registration and event details are available on the College of Social Work website.

Free continuing education for alumni | March 1–31

Throughout March, CoSW alumni may complete one free asynchronous continuing education (CE) course.

Alumni can obtain a registration code through the Wildcat Network and redeem the course through the UKY Learning Management System.

CoSW Pop-Up Shop | March 4–24

A month-long College of Social Work Pop-Up Shop will be open on campus featuring CoSW-branded merchandise and a limited-edition 2026 design.

Student tabling and community engagement | March 5

CoSW will host a tabling event from noon to 2 p.m. in the Gatton Student Center. Activities include swag giveaways, prize drawings, trivia, interactive activities, classic arcade gameplay and opportunities to connect with recruiters and student ambassadors.

De-escalation training for students | March 10

A hands-on de-escalation training will be offered in a hybrid format with in-person and virtual options.

Led by Officer Culver of the UK Police Department, the session will focus on navigating high-stress situations, safely defusing tense encounters and promoting positive outcomes in professional practice.

Continuing education event in Hazard | March 11

CoSW will host an in-person continuing education event at the UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health in Hazard, Kentucky.

Cris Rush Walker, MSW, LCSW, will present two identical sessions from noon to 2 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Professionals and community partners are welcome to attend.

UK HealthCare appreciation events | March 13–20

CoSW will host appreciation events recognizing social workers and security professionals across UK HealthCare settings:

  • Good Samaritan Hospital — Friday, March 13
  • Chandler Hospital — Wednesday, March 18
  • Eastern State Hospital — March 20

Parole hearing process event | March 26

A hybrid event from 4 to 5 p.m. will feature Kentucky Parole Board Chair Ladeidra Justice Jones, who will provide an overview of the parole hearing process and discuss rehabilitation, reentry and victim input in parole decisions. Students, alumni and community members are encouraged to attend.

CoSW Night at the UK baseball game | March 31

The month will conclude with a College of Social Work gathering at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, at Kentucky Proud Park.

UK College of Social Work invites community to trauma-informed care lunch and learn in Hazard

HAZARD, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work is inviting students, alumni and community practitioners to deepen their understanding of trauma-informed care during an upcoming Lunch & Learn at the UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health.

The in-person event, Trauma-Informed Social Work: Principles, Practice, and Protective Factors, will be held Wednesday, March 11, at the UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health, 750 Morton Blvd., in Hazard. Participants may choose between two identical sessions offered from 12–2 p.m. ET or 4–6 p.m. ET in Room 214/216. Attendees will earn 1.5 continuing education units (CEUs), and a meal will be provided.

Alumni and students in the Hazard area are encouraged to attend. Registration is available at:
https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_425ZX9kagtRWK8e

The session will be led by Cris Rush, LCSW, a longtime leader in behavioral health and trauma-informed systems development. Rush earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky and has devoted more than three decades to advancing mental health and well-being for children, families and communities.

Her career includes 11 years in community mental health serving in clinical and administrative roles, followed by 22 years in public schools, where she coordinated physical and mental health services, conducted functional behavioral assessments and led trauma-informed care initiatives to improve school climate and student outcomes.

Since retiring in 2024, Rush has continued to strengthen trauma-informed systems across Kentucky. She provides consultation and training for the Kentucky River Regional Health Department and supports school districts through the University of Louisville’s Center for Instructional and Behavioral Research in Schools. She also serves as a part-time instructor with the UK College of Social Work.

This Lunch & Learn is part of CoSW’s withstanding commitment to strengthening behavioral health and trauma-informed practices across the Bluegrass.

The event is part of the college’s broader celebration of National Social Work Month and National Criminal Justice Month in March, recognizing the vital role professionals play in promoting resilience, safety and community well-being.

To explore additional events and activities throughout the month, visit https://ukcosw.com/March2026.

portrait of Officer Michael Culver and K9 Hudson

College of Social Work Hosts De-Escalation Training with UKPD

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work will host a de-escalation training in partnership with the UK Police Department on March 10, 2026 at 4:00 PM EST offering students, faculty, staff and community members practical tools to safely navigate tense situations.

The training is offered in both in-person and virtual formats. Participants can register to attend in person via the linked form or register for the virtual option via Zoom.

Back by popular demand, the session will be led by UKPD Officer Culver and is grounded in the Surviving Verbal Conflict® framework. Participants will learn to recognize early verbal and nonverbal signs of escalation and apply clear, structured communication techniques designed to reduce conflict and promote safety.

The training will cover how to:

  • Use respectful deflectors to acknowledge emotion and redirect behavior
  • Clearly explain policies and safety rationale using “commander’s intent”
  • Offer options and fair consequences while confirming decisions
  • Recognize when to disengage, call for assistance and document incidents

Adding a lighthearted touch to the learning environment, K9 Hudson will also make a special appearance.

This event is part of the College of Social Work’s ongoing celebration of National Social Work Month and National Criminal Justice Month in March, recognizing the vital role these professions play in strengthening communities, promoting safety and improving the human condition.

Those interested in exploring additional events and activities throughout the month can learn more at:
https://ukcosw.com/March2026.

For questions, contact Dr. Kayla Powell at kayla.powell@uky.edu.