LEXINGTON, KY (Nov. 20, 2024) – Jessica Sellers, a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), recently represented the university at the prestigious Student Veterans of America (SVA) Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C. Sellers, a distance learner based in Alabama, participated alongside other student veterans from across the country, engaging in dynamic discussions and mentorship opportunities aimed at advancing veteran support and leadership within the social work field.
The event included a panel discussion at the White House, where Sellers had the opportunity to engage directly with high-ranking officials, including the Chief of Staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Reflecting on the moment, Sellers shared, “When I was medically separated from the military, I never imagined I’d be where I am today… much less being invited to the White House to share my concerns and discuss meaningful change.”
The experience culminated in a graduation ceremony held at the Library of Congress, where Sellers was recognized as an SVA Leadership Fellow. “Graduating in such an iconic and historic space was surreal,” Sellers said. “Social work has given me the ability to continue serving others in a new way, and this experience reaffirmed my passion for helping veterans not only survive, but thrive.”
Mentorship and Advocacy
During the Leadership Institute, Sellers mentored aspiring social workers and undergraduates preparing to apply for MSW programs. “The most meaningful thing I could share wasn’t advice about papers or research methods, but encouraging them to see the artistry of human connection and the creative potential of social work,” she explained.
Sellers also encouraged other DSW students, particularly those in the Military Behavioral Health Graduate Certificate program, to consider applying for the Leadership Institute, emphasizing its value for distance learners.
“As a distance learner, I almost didn’t apply because I wasn’t sure how much weight my application would hold ,” Sellers shared. “But SVA welcomed me with open arms and provided an incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and grow as a leader,” she said.
A Vision for Expanding Support
In addition to her current work as an outpatient therapist at a community-based mental health center, where she specializes in serving veterans, Sellers has ambitious goals for expanding veteran-focused mental health services. “My ultimate goal is to build a Military and Veteran Initiatives team to improve and expand community-based services,” she shared. “Experiences like this help me feel confident that I can achieve these goals, thanks to the mentors and connections I’ve made.”
The event also highlighted the importance of advocacy within social work. Sellers expressed her hope that more CoSW students will take advantage of SVA programs, such as Washington Week and the National Convention, which offer opportunities to engage with policymakers and participate in breakout sessions on topics like social justice and grant writing.
Advice for Future Applicants
For students considering the SVA Leadership Institute, Sellers emphasized the importance of authenticity and purpose. “Know your ‘why’ and convey your passion for change-making,” she said. “Social workers are natural leaders and advocates—this experience is an incredible way to hone those skills and build the confidence to create meaningful change.”
Sellers is now exploring sponsorship opportunities to lead a group of CoSW students to the SVA National Convention and Washington Week in 2025. “These events would provide invaluable experiences for students, particularly those interested in policy and advocacy,” she said.
Through her participation in the SVA Leadership Institute, Sellers has not only represented the University of Kentucky with distinction but has also set an inspiring example for her peers, showcasing the transformative power of social work leadership in addressing veteran needs.
For more information about the College of Social Work or the Military Behavioral Health track, visit socialwork.uky.edu.
