CoSW Student Leadership applications open for 2026–2027 

Student leadership opportunities at the College of Social Work are open to both online and in-person students, offering flexible, paid and volunteer roles that empower students to build leadership skills, shape College decisions, and make a meaningful impact during the 2026–2027 academic year.
Pictured: Student ambassador Makari Murphy

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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. 

For over 85 years, the College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky has been a leader in education. Our mission is clear: Through rigorous research, excellence in instruction, and steadfast service, the CoSW works to improve the human condition. Always, in all ways.

As the state’s flagship university, our mission is actualized through our deeds. Our faculty are renowned academicians dedicated to fostering the development of high-quality practitioners and researchers. As a college, we promote community and individual well-being through translational research and scholarship, exemplary teaching, and vital community engagement. We are committed to the people and social institutions throughout Kentucky, the nation, and the world.