LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 30, 2026) — Social work professionals from across Kentucky gathered in Lexington June 24-25 for the University of Kentucky College of Social Work’s (CoSW) Social Work Essentials Conference, a two-day event designed to help practitioners meet licensure requirements while strengthening their knowledge and skills in key areas of practice.
Hosted by the College’s Office of Professional Development and Continuing Education, the conference provided participants with the courses required for Kentucky social work licensure renewal, including Social Work Ethics, Suicide Prevention, Domestic Violence and Elder Abuse. Attendees also received access to an on-demand course on Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma.
Held at the Fayette County Extension Office, the conference brought together social workers from a variety of practice settings to learn from experts in the field while earning continuing education credits approved by the Kentucky Board of Social Work.
The conference featured presentations from Geoff Wilson, LCSW, on social work ethics; Jeni Gamble, Ph.D., on elder intimate partner violence and elder abuse; and Shericka Smith, DSW, LCSW, on suicide prevention.
For many attendees, the event provided an opportunity to complete multiple licensure requirements in one setting while engaging with topics that directly impact the individuals, families and communities they serve.
“Continuing education is about more than meeting licensure requirements,” said Christina Krantz, continuing education specialist at the UK College of Social Work. “It’s an opportunity for social workers to deepen their knowledge, strengthen their practice and stay informed about issues affecting communities across Kentucky. We were excited to bring professionals together for meaningful learning and discussion while supporting their ongoing growth in the field.”
The conference reflects the College’s commitment to supporting social workers throughout their careers by providing accessible, relevant and practice-focused professional development opportunities.
As the needs of Kentucky communities continue to evolve, continuing education remains an important tool for helping social workers stay prepared to address complex challenges while providing ethical, informed and effective care.