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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.

Group of students smiling

UK College of Social Work to Host Spring Preview Day

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) will host its Spring Preview Day on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Gatton Student Center. The event invites prospective freshmen and transfer students — along with their families — to experience an immersive introduction to academic programs, campus life, and career pathways in social work and criminal justice. 

Students and families are encouraged to register in advance to receive full event details and updates. Campus parking, a light breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided to help make the day welcoming, engaging, and easy to enjoy from start to finish. 

Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026 
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 
Location: Gatton Student Center, University of Kentucky 
Register: https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3OwkoJOgqk53AjQ 

Preview Day is designed to provide insight into campus life, college opportunities, financial aid, student support resources, and the overall student experience. Attendees will engage with faculty, staff, student ambassadors, alumni, and professionals in the field to explore coursework, learning modalities, and real-world career opportunities. 

“Preview Day gives students and families the chance to experience the College of Social Work firsthand — from our classrooms and community partnerships to the career pathways our graduates pursue,” said college Dr. Sam Bryant, director of recruitment. “It’s an opportunity to see how education at UK connects directly to meaningful, real-world impact.” 

A Day of Exploration and Connection 

The event begins with a welcome breakfast and orientation session featuring an address from college leadership and an overview of CoSW programs and opportunities. 

Throughout the day, attendees will: 

  • Tour campus with student ambassadors and learn about student services, residence life, and campus resources. 
  • Attend mini-lecture experiences in Social Work and Criminal Justice to experience classroom learning and connect with faculty. 
  • Join parent sessions covering admissions, financial aid, scholarships, and career outlook. 
  • Engage with alumni, professionals, and current students during a combined career pathways panel highlighting real-world practice and graduate school options. 
  • Explore student life and organizations unique to the College of Social Work and the broader UK community. 
  • Participate in an application workshop with expert guidance and receive an application fee waiver. 

Lunch in Champions Kitchen will provide opportunities for informal roundtable discussions and networking with members of the CoSW community. 

Supporting Future Wildcats 

Preview Day aims to help prospective students and their families make informed decisions by highlighting CoSW’s commitment to interconnected learning, community engagement, and career readiness. 

The College of Social Work prepares students to address complex social challenges, promote justice, and strengthen communities through innovative education and real-world practice. Our mission is to improve the human condition, always and in all ways.

Image of UK COSW Criminal Justice backpack sitting next to open laptop

College of Social Work faculty researchers present at 2026 ACJS Annual Meeting 

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Faculty and researchers from the University of Kentucky College of Social Work will present their scholarship at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) 63rd Annual Meeting, held March 3–7, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

Founded in 1963, ACJS is an international professional association dedicated to advancing criminal justice education, research, and policy. The annual meeting convenes scholars, practitioners, and students from across disciplines to examine contemporary issues shaping justice systems in the United States and globally. 

This year, Criminal Justice faculty in the College of Social Work will contribute to multiple sessions addressing critical and emerging areas of criminal justice research and practice. 

Presentations span topics such as online harms and digital violence, community-led justice reform, correctional policy, and the intersections of gender, ideology, and violence in online spaces.  

Faculty will also engage in interdisciplinary panels that explore the impact of research on prevention, intervention, policy creation and implementation, as well as community-based responses to criminal offending and social harm. 

In addition to conference presentations, the College of Social Work will host a gathering for alumni, faculty, staff, and friends attending ACJS, creating space for connection and community during the conference.  

For those interested in attending, registrations can be completed here. 

The College’s presence at the ACJS Annual Meeting represents a continued investment in national and international conversations about crime, justice and safety for all people. 

The conference also aligns with the College’s observance of National Criminal Justice Month in March, a time dedicated to recognizing the professionals, scholars and community partners working to strengthen justice systems and public safety.

As part of this broader effort, participation in ACJS helps launch a month of storytelling and appreciation events, highlighting the impact of the University’s criminal justice community — including faculty research, student and alumni contributions, and the work of public safety partners such as University of Kentucky Police and security professionals. 

Every student deserves an E.D.G.E

College of Social Work launches KY E.D.G.E., expanding opportunity for Kentucky students

LEXINGTON, Ky. — In a state where most counties still qualify as rural and nearly 40 percent of residents live outside metropolitan centers, the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is meeting their rural students where they are and opening the door a little wider.

CoSW has launched KY E.D.G.E., a statewide initiative aimed at expanding educational access and preparing more Kentuckians for careers in social work and criminal justice — fields that have long struggled to keep pace with the needs of the state’s growing communities.

The program, whose name stands for Education. Development. Growth. Empowerment., combines financial assistance with academic and professional support for undergraduate students who call Kentucky home.

The aim of the KY E.D.G.E is to provide scholarships that not only to reduce the financial pressures associated with earning a degree, but also to strengthen the number of workforce-ready graduates entering professions that are central to the wellbeing of Kentucky communities.

“The people who grew up in rural communities understand the realities their neighbors face,” said Ramla Osman, director of philanthropy. “When individuals invest in programs like KY E.D.G.E., they help expand opportunities for students who want to stay, serve and strengthen the communities that shaped them.”

Under the program, students receive an application fee waiver, up to $5,000 in financial assistance, tailored advising and tutoring, mentorship from faculty and alumni, flexible online learning pathways and structured professional development experiences, including work-study and networking.

Internal data show that 62.5 percent of CoSW students face unmet financial needs, more than double the university average. Over 60 percent of CoSW students require additional academic assistance. Those figures, leaders say, illustrate the importance of donor-supported programs designed to help students stay enrolled and persist to graduation.

“Removing barriers and increasing a sense of belonging for our students are central to this initiative,” said Dr. Matthew Moore, associate dean of academic and student affairs. “Donor partnership ensures we can continue expanding access for rural Kentuckians and strengthening the professional capacity of the communities we know and love.”

The College’s statewide network of more than 500 community partnerships will also play a role by connecting students to field placements, mentorship and long-term employment across Kentucky’s social service and justice systems.

KY E.D.G.E. is the latest in a series of efforts from the College designed to close gaps in opportunity for rural students. It builds on initiatives such as the Rural Health and Well-Being Graduate Certificate, the behavioral health workforce partnership with ARH, and the College’s expanding portfolio of quality-certified online degree programs.

Individuals interested in supporting rural Kentucky students and contributing to the KY E.D.G.E. initiative may do so at https://ukcosw.com/KY-EDGE-Fund.

CoSW Student Leadership applications open for 2026–2027 

Looking to get involved, build leadership skills, and make an impact at the College of Social Work? Student leadership applications are now open to hybrid, online and in-person students for the 2026–2027 academic year. 

Students may apply for multiple leadership roles. Some positions may require additional information or a brief interview 

“We are intentional about creating leadership opportunities that are accessible to all students, regardless of where or how they’re learning,” said Dr. Kayla Powell, Director of Student Experience & Engagement (SEE).

Application window: February 15 – March 15, 2026 
Questions? Contact Dr. Powell, at Kayla.Powell@uky.edu 

“Participating in a student leadership role has been impactful for me because it’s shown how much student perspectives truly matter in decision-making at the College of Social Work,” said Blake Conley, a second-year PhD student who serves as the PhD representative on the Doctoral Committee. “Working alongside faculty and administrators has made it clear that CoSW is deeply student-centered—and that student voices play a real, meaningful role in shaping the College.” 

CoSW Student Ambassador (Paid) 

CoSW Student Ambassadors represent the College at recruitment and engagement events with prospective students and their families. Responsibilities may include leading information sessions, meeting one-on-one with prospective students, tabling at events, or supporting outreach efforts. 

  • Open to online, in-person and hybrid undergraduate, MSW, and DSW students 
  • Undergraduate ambassadors must be available for in-person events 
  • MSW and DSW ambassadors may serve virtually 
  • No more than 8 hours per month 
  • $500 per semester stipend 

Dean’s Student Advisory Council 

Student representatives from each academic program serve on the Dean’s Student Advisory Council, providing feedback and insight from the student perspective. 

  • Meets every three weeks 
  • Wednesdays, 1–2 p.m. (EST) 
  • Meetings held on Zoom 

Graduate Student Congress Representative 

The Graduate Student Congress represents graduate, professional, and postdoctoral students across the university and supports student advocacy, funding access, and professional development. 

  • Two representatives serve on behalf of CoSW, representing doctoral and graduate students. 
  • Monthly hybrid meetings 
  • Optional participation in subcommittees 

College Committee Student Representatives 

Students provide input on key College committees, including: 

  • Admissions and Retention 
  • Curriculum 
  • Doctoral (PhD or DSW students only) 
  • Research 
  • Strategic Planning and Quality Improvement 

Each committee includes one undergraduate and one graduate student representative and meets monthly on Zoom. 

Why Get Involved? 

Student leadership offers meaningful opportunities to build skills, gain experience, and help shape the future of the College of Social Work. 

Applications are open February 15–March 15, 2026. 

UK College of Social Work to Participate in 2026 Advocacy Day

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) will participate in the 2026 Advocacy Day, a statewide event bringing together students, educators and community partners to meet with state legislators and build advocacy skills. Advocacy Day will take place Friday, February 20, 2026, and will be held virtually this year. 

The virtual Advocacy Day will include continuing education (CE) opportunities, advocacy-focused workshops, and panel discussions highlighting the work of Kentucky social workers, students and collaborative partners across the Commonwealth. Participants do not need to be located in Kentucky to take part. 

Registration for the virtual Advocacy Day is available at: 
https://kscsw.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/kscsw/eventRegistration.jsp?event=723 

CoSW faculty member Dr. Andi Sparrow, LCSW, president of the Kentucky Society for Clinical Social Work (KSCSW), encourages all students to participate and engage with policy work firsthand. 

“Advocacy Day gives students, professionals and community partners the opportunity to see how policy directly shapes the lives of individuals, families and communities,” Sparrow said. “I encourage everyone to participate and see firsthand how collective voices—across disciplines and lived experiences—help inform meaningful, ethical and effective policy change that strengthens our communities.” 

To support engagement on campus, the Student Engagement and Experience (SEE) department will host an in-person viewing and engagement space for the virtual event. All CoSW students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate. 

The in-person watch party will take place in ChemPhys Room 103 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Participants will be able to view sessions, engage in discussion and connect with peers throughout the day. Additional schedule details will be shared once finalized. 

Registration for the in-person watch party is available at: 
https://uky.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_083UFqDG3f78UaW 

The UK College of Social Work encourages students, faculty and staff—both online and in-person—to take part in Advocacy Day and engage in conversations that advance the social work profession and promote positive policy change. 

For any questions related to the event, please reach out to Dr. Kayla Powell, Director of Student Engagement and Experience at Kayla.Powell@uky.edu 

Image of Army-UK students lined up

Army–UK MSW program enrolls 33 students, prepares officers for military social work practice

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Thirty-three Master of Social Work (MSW) students from the University of Kentucky participated in an orientation at Joint Base San Antonio–Fort Sam Houston as part of the U.S. Army–University of Kentucky MSW Program, preparing them for upcoming practicum placements focused on behavioral health and military social work.

Hosted at the U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence (MEDCoE), the orientation introduced students to the structure, expectations, and professional responsibilities of military social work practice. The cohort is composed of Army officers representing a wide range of professional backgrounds and lived experiences.

The U.S. Army–University of Kentucky MSW Program was conceived to prepare commissioned Army officers for advanced social work practice within military, medical, and federal systems. Through this long-standing partnership, students earn an accredited MSW degree while remaining on active duty, allowing them to immediately apply clinical and leadership skills in service of soldiers, families, and military-connected communities worldwide.

Beginning in May 2026, students in the 26-1 cohort will complete a Foundation Block Placement, a practicum model designed to allow students to focus exclusively on hands-on practice without the competing demands of concurrent coursework.

“This model allows students to fully immerse themselves in clinical and systems-level social work practice,” said Shawndra Y. Pickett, LCSW-S, Practicum Education Coordinator and Clinical Instructor for the U.S. Army–University of Kentucky MSW Program. “By separating coursework from practicum responsibilities, students are able to build competence, confidence, and professional identity in a highly focused way.”

The program equips graduates to serve in key roles across military behavioral health, medical social work, and leadership positions within the Army and other federal agencies, reinforcing the University of Kentucky’s commitment to preparing professionals for service-oriented, high-impact careers.

“Not only did the orientation phase prepare me for practicum placement, but it also reinforced the importance of military social work and the responsibility that comes with it,” said 2LT Sandessa Jones, an Active Duty Army-UK MSW student in the program. “I’m honored to be part of the Army-UK MSW Program and excited to embark on this journey with a strong sense of purpose and commitment to serving our community.”