School-Based Social Work Education and Network Development (SSWEND)
Applications for the AY 24-25 generalist and advanced generalist cohorts of SSWEND Scholars will open January 1st, 2024 and priority review will be given to those who apply by January 31st, 2024. Applications for post-MSW students are accepted year-round.
The School-Based Social Work Education and Network Development Program (Project SSWEND) is an innovative partnership between the University of Alaska Anchorage and the Anchorage School District (ASD). Project SSWEND will increase the number of qualified school-based mental health service providers from diverse backgrounds within the communities served and allow the district to promote inclusive and empirically supported practices within the district.
Project SSWEND will train 31 SSWEND fellows to provide a positive impact on inclusive practices and child outcomes in high-needs schools across Anchorage School District. Additionally, Project SSWEND will meet locally identified needs for mental health service professionals. Program activities include placing MSW students in practicums in ASD high-need schools, advising fellows through the required coursework, enhancing fellows’ networks and education through professional organizations, and assisting SSWEND graduates in acquiring their Type C Certification and becoming employed as a school-based mental health service provider.
NEWS & Stories
Restorative justice is a form of resolution that allows victims of crimes to work with the criminal justice system to address and correct the harm caused. UAA’s Ingrid Johnson from the Justice Center and Rei Shimizu from the School of Social Work spoke to the Alaska Beacon about how restorative justice can be used in cases of domestic violence.
The Housing Action Summit in Anchorage featured a week of events that draw attention to Anchorage’s housing crisis. Faculty and staff from across UAA spoke to Alaska’s News Source about barriers some students face, including food insecurity and homelessness.
Alaska is tied for the highest number of female veterans in the United States, but many of them do not use services through the VA in Alaska. Alaska’s News Source spoke to UAA Assistant Professor and veteran, Vanessa Meade, about potential obstacles related to the issue.
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.
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."
Upcoming Events
Phone: 907-786-6901
Email: mjcuellar@alaska.edu
UAA School of Social Work
UAA Professional Studies Building
2533 Providence Dr, Suite 234
Anchorage, AK 99508
Mailing Address:
UAA School of Social Work
3211 Providence Dr, PSB 234
Anchorage, AK 99508
