Lexington, KY – Dr. Stephanie Ratliff’s journey has been defined by a deep sense of place and purpose.
Growing up in a beautiful holler in Knott County, Ratliff now finds herself on the cusp of an incredible milestone. On Friday, December 20th, she will walk across the stage at UK’s commencement, wearing a new stole to symbolize the completion of her PhD.
“I feel like I’ve really come into my own,” Ratliff shared, reflecting on her experience over in social work and higher education. “When I graduated with my BASW, I knew so little about the complexities of human suffering. Now, I see the world differently. I’m learning where compassion, action, and mentorship intersect.”
From Social Worker to Scholar
Ratliff’s early career as a social worker exposed her to the hidden realities of intimate partner violence (IPV)—an issue that would become central to her doctoral research.
“When I first started out, IPV was often hidden behind other challenges like housing instability or addiction. I didn’t realize how pervasive it was,” she recalled. Over time, Ratliff’s awareness grew, and her dissertation explored how better data collection on IPV could lead to more funding and support for survivors.
“Social work teaches you to be brave and use your voice,” Ratliff said. “Research is a way to advocate for those who often go unheard. It’s about finding the courage to speak up and take risks.”
Empowering the Next Generation
As Director of Field Education, Ratliff oversees the final stage of social work students’ training, ensuring they are ready for the challenges of the profession. “Field education is where everything comes together,” she explained. “It’s not just about skill-building; it’s about creating space for students to reflect, grow, and learn from both successes and mistakes.”
Supervision, she emphasized, is essential in this process. “It’s where we slow down, reflect, and ask, ‘What worked? What could have been done differently?’ That’s how we grow as practitioners and human beings.” Field placements, Ratliff noted, are also a vital bridge to employment. “Many students are offered jobs where they’ve interned, which is critical in a field that’s perpetually understaffed.”
Looking Ahead
For Ratliff, the journey to earning her Ph.D. was more than an academic pursuit—it was a calling. “I tried to push it away, but it kept coming back to me. I’m so glad I listened. This work gives my life meaning. It’s part of why I’m here. Through earning a Ph.D. I have learned how to contribute differently.”
As she prepares to graduate, Ratliff envisions the continued growth of the Field Education program driven by purpose, innovation, and action. Her goals include increasing research practicum opportunities, advocating for student compensation in field placements, and embedding social justice into graduate education.
“Social work is everywhere,” she said. “With placements in every state, we’ve hit a major milestone. Now, we’re building on that momentum—working with alumni, agencies, and community partners to create new opportunities for social workers in essential spaces.”
This December, as Ratliff crosses the stage, she will celebrate more than her achievement—she’ll carry forward her vision to empower others and transform lives. “Social work is about solutions, not perfection,” she said. “And we have the tools to figure it out.”
