LEXINGTON, Ky. — Deona McLeod Frierson, LCSW, a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), has been selected for the Doctoral Minority Fellowship from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The prestigious fellowship prepares emerging social work leaders to reduce the impact of substance use and mental health challenges by strengthening behavioral health services in communities with historically limited access to resources.
Frierson is the founder and executive director of ProCure Therapeutic Agency, Inc., a nationally accredited behavioral health organization in North Carolina that has provided community-based services for nearly two decades. Through her leadership, she has expanded access to care for uninsured, underinsured, and underserved populations while mentoring the next generation of clinicians and administrators.
At UK, Frierson said the DSW program’s Administrative Leadership (LDR) concentration has expanded her capacity to lead effectively within complex systems of care. The concentration emphasizes both the human and technical aspects of leadership—from workforce development and cultivating organizational culture to leveraging technology and managing resources. Frierson said this approach has strengthened her ability to work within communities, support her staff, and implement sustainable practices.
“The College of Social Work has provided an environment that continues to expand my leadership capacity,” Frierson said. “I am especially grateful to Dr. Alison Wetmur for her invaluable mentorship and guidance throughout the fellowship process and my scholarly journey.” Frierson’s work centers on improving how communities approach mental and behavioral health care—particularly for Black youth and families. Her research explores how culturally responsive and trauma-informed leadership can build systems that not only provide care but also empower individuals and communities. She’s especially passionate about helping organizations build sustainable workforces that reflect and understand the communities they serve.
For Frierson, the fellowship represents more than professional growth—it’s an opportunity to connect with others who share her drive to make behavioral health care more equitable and accessible.
“I’m excited to learn from and collaborate with other scholars and mentors who care deeply about transforming behavioral health,” Frierson said. “Being part of this fellowship reminds me that the work we do locally can create ripples of impact—shaping care, systems, and hope for communities across the country.” Dr. Laura Escobar-Ratlif (Dr. E-R), director of the DSW program, said Frierson’s recognition is a reflection of both her professional excellence and her deep commitment to community-centered leadership.
“Deona is a remarkable example of what it means to lead with compassion, intellect, and purpose,” E-R said. “Her dedication to creating accessible behavioral health care has already made an impact in her community and beyond. This fellowship is a well-deserved recognition of her talent, her heart for service, and her commitment to social work.”
