LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) will celebrate National Social Work Month and National Criminal Justice Month throughout March 2026 with a series of educational events, trainings, community celebrations and storytelling initiatives highlighting the critical role these professions play in supporting individuals, families and communities across Kentucky and beyond.
Programming throughout the month will engage students, alumni, faculty, staff and community partners through hands-on learning opportunities, continuing education, campus activations and public-facing events.
More information, registration and event details are available on the College of Social Work website.
Free continuing education for alumni | March 1–31
Throughout March, CoSW alumni may complete one free asynchronous continuing education (CE) course.
Alumni can obtain a registration code through the Wildcat Network and redeem the course through the UKY Learning Management System.
CoSW Pop-Up Shop | March 4–24
A month-long College of Social Work Pop-Up Shop will be open on campus featuring CoSW-branded merchandise and a limited-edition 2026 design.
Student tabling and community engagement | March 5
CoSW will host a tabling event from noon to 2 p.m. in the Gatton Student Center. Activities include swag giveaways, prize drawings, trivia, interactive activities, classic arcade gameplay and opportunities to connect with recruiters and student ambassadors.
De-escalation training for students | March 10
A hands-on de-escalation training will be offered in a hybrid format with in-person and virtual options.
Led by Officer Culver of the UK Police Department, the session will focus on navigating high-stress situations, safely defusing tense encounters and promoting positive outcomes in professional practice.
Continuing education event in Hazard | March 11
CoSW will host an in-person continuing education event at the UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health in Hazard, Kentucky.
Cris Rush Walker, MSW, LCSW, will present two identical sessions from noon to 2 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Professionals and community partners are welcome to attend.
UK HealthCare appreciation events | March 13–20
CoSW will host appreciation events recognizing social workers and security professionals across UK HealthCare settings:
- Good Samaritan Hospital — Friday, March 13
- Chandler Hospital — Wednesday, March 18
- Eastern State Hospital — March 20
Parole hearing process event | March 26
A hybrid event from 4 to 5 p.m. will feature Kentucky Parole Board Chair Ladeidra Justice Jones, who will provide an overview of the parole hearing process and discuss rehabilitation, reentry and victim input in parole decisions. Students, alumni and community members are encouraged to attend.
CoSW Night at the UK baseball game | March 31
The month will conclude with a College of Social Work gathering at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, at Kentucky Proud Park.
