Social Work News

Donna Aguiniga, Matthew Cuellar and Mary Dallas Allen smiling, standing in front of trees Read More

UAA’s School of Social Work $1.2 million Department of Education grant will fill school social worker shortage in Alaska

 |  Catalina Myers  |  , , , ,

UAA's School of Social Work received a $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to address the need for Alaska social workers in a K-12 setting. The School-Based Social Work Education and Network Development program (SSWEND) aims to graduate a cohort of 31 fellows by 2026 who will increase the amount of school-based mental health service providers in high-needs schools.

Serena Nesteby Read More

Alumni Spotlight: Serena Nesteby

 |  Chynna Lockett  | 

Alumni Serena Nesteby was recognized with Alaska's 2023 40 under 40 award. She's currently an Advancement Officer at Iḷisaġvik College and said UAA's School of Social Work set the foundation for her career. "I’ve always wanted to be in a profession that helps others. I knew during the Introduction to Social Work course that it was the right field for me."

Jaquisa Oliver taking social worker oath Read More

Gala celebrates School of Social Work Spring graduates

 |  Chynna Lockett  |  ,

A Gala was held to celebrate the School of Social Work Spring graduates. About 100 people attended the event, filling the room with bustling conversation. Five students graduating from the Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work programs share why social work motivates them.

Guy Harris Read More

MSW Student Spotlight: Guy Harris

 |  Guy Harris  |  , , , ,

"For all those deciding what to do following high school, I encourage you to find your passion, that spark that brings you joy and motivation. If you don’t quite know what you want to do with your life, that is okay. When you find the path that motivates you, take each small step one by one, but don’t stop growing," said MSW student Guy Harris.

Dr. Vanessa Meade Read More

Honoring Mary Louise Rasmuson: School of Social Work faculty Vanessa Meade instrumental in Alaska VA renaming

 |  Catalina Myers  |  ,

On Feb. 24, the Alaska VA Clinic was officially renamed the Colonel Mary Louise Rasmuson Campus of the Alaska VA Healthcare System, a collaborative effort that included both Alaska senators and U.S Representative, as well as the invaluable contributions of Assistant Professor Vanessa Meade in UAA’s School of Social Work.