LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 29, 2026) — Among hundreds of sessions, national awards and thousands of social work educators, scholars and practitioners gathered in Atlanta for the Council on Social Work Education’s Annual Conference, one University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) recognition centered on something deeply personal: the impact of mentorship.
Shelita Jackson, DSW, clinical associate professor and director of Bachelor of Arts in Social Work Undergraduate Studies, received a Mentor Recognition Award from CSWE’s Council on the Role and Status of Women in Social Work Education during the council’s Feminist Awards and Networking Breakfast.
Jackson was nominated by CoSW alum Erica Magnani, DSW class of 2024.
The recognition honors mentors whose support has made a meaningful difference in the lives and careers of social work students and professionals.
For Jackson, the award reflects an approach to education and leadership that has shaped much of her work at UK — helping students recognize their strengths, navigate challenges and see new possibilities for their futures.
“I’ve always believed that relationships are the foundation of change,” Jackson previously said. “When students feel seen, supported and challenged in the right ways, they don’t just become stronger professionals — they become stronger advocates and leaders.”
The recognition adds to a year of professional milestones for Jackson. In 2026, she was promoted to clinical associate professor, received the University of Kentucky Outstanding Teaching Award and was recognized with the Catalyst Award through UK’s Martin Luther King Center. She was also elected to the Board of Directors for the Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors.
Jackson’s recognition came during a strong showing for the College at CSWE’s Annual Conference, held Oct. 22-25 in Atlanta.