LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is proud to celebrate Dr. Shelita Jackson, director of the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program, as a recipient of the 2026 Catalyst Award, presented during the 4th Annual Legacy Dinner and Awards hosted by the MLK Center.
The award honors individuals who embody Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through leadership, service and meaningful community impact. For Jackson, that impact is deeply rooted in her commitment to relationship-centered education and mentorship — and in her dedication to building pathways for the next generation of social workers in Kentucky and beyond.
“Dr. King’s legacy reminds us that real change begins when we choose courage, compassion and community — again and again,” Jackson said. “To be recognized with an award connected to his name is humbling. I don’t do this work alone. I do it in partnership with students, colleagues and every person who believes we can create a better future together.”
Leading with purpose — in and beyond the classroom
As BASW program director, Jackson plays a pivotal role in shaping the academic and professional experience of undergraduate social work students at UK. Her leadership arrives during a milestone era for the program — following CoSW’s recent celebration of 50 years of BASW accreditation, a legacy of developing practice-ready professionals grounded in social justice and community wellbeing.
Jackson’s work is defined not only by what she builds, but by how she builds it — with a focus on trust, connection and student-centered growth.
“I’ve always believed that relationships are the foundation of change,” Jackson said. “When students feel seen, supported and challenged in the right ways, they don’t just become stronger professionals, they become stronger advocates, leaders and healers.”
That relationship-driven approach was recently recognized on a national stage. During the 2026 Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Annual Conference, Jackson received a Mentor Recognition Award, honoring her lasting impact on student success and professional development.
Expanding career pathways through addiction counseling training
Jackson recently developed and launched a new Substance Use Counseling undergraduate training program within the BASW curriculum. This training program is an innovative course sequence designed for students who want to kickstart their careers in behavioral health and addiction counseling.
Through the program, students engage in specialized learning related to treatment models, client engagement strategies, community coordination and evidence-informed practices. Upon completion, many students may be eligible to apply for Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor Associate I (CADCA I) recognition — an important professional step for those pursuing licensure in Kentucky.
A year of growth, scholarship and recognition
Jackson’s Catalyst Award also reflects a year of meaningful momentum and achievement. She recently celebrated professional milestones including:
- Two journal submissions
- A poem publication in the No More Margins Journal
- Five conference presentations as a speaker, presenter or co-presenter
- An Outstanding Teacher Award
- A Program Director of the Year nomination
- Election to a BPD Board of Directors role
As CoSW continues to expand opportunities for students across Kentucky and beyond, Jackson’s recognition reflects the BASW program’s continued momentum and impact, grounded in mentorship, academic excellence and community.
“I want students to know that they belong here,” Jackson said. “And I want them to leave here believing they can make change wherever they go.”
