LEXINGTON, Ky. – For Hannah Brooks, pursuing a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) represents more than advancing her education, it is an opportunity to continue growing as a clinician, educator and advocate for children and families.
After earning her master’s degree, Brooks spent years building her career before deciding to return to school. Working as a play therapist in community mental health, she discovered a growing passion for teaching, mentorship and professional development.
“As this grew into a greater passion, I decided to pursue my DSW at the University of Kentucky,” Brooks shared.
Choosing UK felt like a natural fit. With family ties to the university and a program structure that aligned with her professional and personal responsibilities, Brooks found a supportive environment to continue expanding her knowledge and impact.
That journey has also been strengthened by scholarship support.
Receiving the Martin Booth & Patsy Dills Tracy Scholarship helped ease financial pressures while Brooks balances doctoral coursework, professional responsibilities and becoming a new mom in 2025. The support has allowed her to focus more fully on her education and long-term goals in social work.
“By receiving financial support, I was able to spend more time on academic pursuits without the fear of greater debt and insecurities,” Brooks shared. “Thank you to both donors for taking the time to meet with me, provide needed support, and give insight on ways to expand my future career.”
Now serving as both a play therapist and CoSW part-time instructor, Brooks said the DSW program has strengthened her work by connecting current research to real-world practice.
“The DSW program has continued to prepare me as a play therapist and instructor by highlighting relevant current literature and applying it to real life,” Brooks said. “This program assisted in growing personal and professional connections. I feel supported in all areas of professional growth and development.”
Brooks’ commitment to social work began long before graduate school. Growing up around respite care and foster care through her family, she witnessed firsthand how meaningful support and advocacy can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
“I saw the impact of one social worker or one person on a child’s life,” Brooks said. “It is a rewarding and fulfilling career to continuously be impacting the world around you.”
As she continues working toward graduating in 2027, Brooks remains focused on supporting children, families and future social workers — carrying forward the same commitment to care and connection that first inspired her path into the profession.