Lexington, KY – From Louisville, Kentucky, Ta’Niya Rucker has always known what perseverance looks like.
As the second youngest of nine sisters and the first in her family to attend and graduate from college, she carved a path that once felt out of reach. “A few years ago, I didn’t think college was possible,” she shared. “But I overcame so much, and here I am.”
During the long months of pandemic isolation, Rucker began watching true-crime documentaries that examined complex human experiences and the professionals who respond in moments of crisis. What started as a passing interest grew into something more. She researched social work, learning how advocacy, compassion, and practical support can shape someone’s future. As she continued exploring, she recognized her own values reflected in the work and a calling started to come into focus.
“Growing up around the realities of addiction, homelessness, and mental health challenges, I saw firsthand how much competent care matters,” she shared. “And I want to do the work. I want to be part of the change.”
During her time at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), she has done exactly that.
As a CoSW Student Ambassador, she helped uplift student voices and worked with her cohort to drive meaningful program improvements. She also completed two deeply impactful practicums opportunities. Her first was at the Human Development Institute (HDI) supporting students with disabilities, and now she’s providing crisis support and safety planning on a 24/7 crisis hotline with the Lexington Sexual Violence Resource Center.
“I’ve learned so much about myself through this program,” she said. “About empathy, boundaries, growth, resilience and what it really means to show up for someone.”
One of the pivotal moments in Rucker’s journey was receiving the Ansari Scholarship. She describes the day she opened the award email as unforgettable.
“I cried immediately,” she said. “It came at a time when I was stretched so thin—caring for my grandmother, trying to get reliable transportation for practicum, balancing so much at home. The scholarship gave me the stability to actually breathe. It allowed me to stay committed, stay focused, and stay here.”
The scholarship also connected her more deeply with the College. The Ansari Scholarship is provided by Justin J. Miller, dean of the College, Louisville native, and a proud kinship and foster alum. She speaks with profound admiration about Dean Jay Miller and his own story of resilience.
“Seeing someone who’s been through so much still choose to give back—to support students like me—it’s incredible. I’ll always respect him for that.”
This December, Rucker will graduate with her BASW and immediately begin the Advanced Standing MSW Program, continuing her focus on mental health and substance use recovery. She has already applied for an internship with DCBS in Louisville, and she’s on track to complete her CADCA I credential as part of the CoSW’s training program in substance use counseling, with long-term goals of earning her LCSW and building a career supporting individuals and families facing addiction.
“I’m so ready to start the work,” she said. “To be in the field and to help people.”
Rucker’s journey is proof of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity, and when support arrives at exactly the right moment.
“I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished,” she said. “And I’m excited for what’s next.”
