Our Latest Stories
Welcome to the latest updates from the School of Social Work. In this section, you’ll find the most recent news, achievements, and initiatives from our vibrant community. From groundbreaking research and innovative programs to student and faculty accomplishments, we are excited to share how our work is making a meaningful impact both locally and globally. Stay tuned for inspiring stories and updates that highlight our commitment to transforming lives and fostering positive change.
WA Governor’s Commission Drives Pioneering Research on Outcomes for AA and NHPI Students
For many years, Asian/Asian American (A/AA) and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NH/PI) student data in Washington have been grouped together, which has made it difficult to understand the challenges faced by students within these diverse communities. To better understand these differences, UW researchers Max Halvorson, Santino Camacho and Jenn Nguyễn spent two years studying student experiences and created two reports on their findings.
January 20, 2026
Life after BASW: Alumni reflect on their education and careers
Graduates of the University of Washington Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare (BASW) program share insights about their current professional roles, and offer candid advice for navigating the BASW program, preparing for the job market and imagining their futures in social work.
December 8, 2025
From Cameras to Chatbots: A Social Work Lens on Technology
Associate Professor Clara Berridge’s research examines the ethical, privacy and equity implications of surveillance and AI technologies in elder care. As she brings this critical lens to national media, policy discussions and a new UW course on Social Welfare and AI, Berridge continues to advocate for technology that upholds dignity, human connection and justice.
December 1, 2025
Ph.D. students Jon Torres and Vania Buck named MFP fellows
University of Washington Ph.D. students Vania Buck and Jon Torres were recognized this past weekend at the Council on Social Work Education Annual Conference as recipients of the 2025 Minority Fellowship Program. Current UW Ph.D. students Joanna La Torre and Juliann Li Verdugo were also selected as MFP fellows in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
October 31, 2025
BASW juniors reflect on their first week in the program
The newest cohort of Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare (BASW) juniors has completed their first week in the program and they are already feeling inspired, challenged and deeply connected to their goals. Asked to reflect on their early impressions, three BASW students shared what has stood out most during this important transition.
October 16, 2025
Ph.D. student Bree Martinez named
Health Policy Research Scholar
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has selected Bree Martinez, a second-year Ph.D. student at the University of Washington School of Social Work, as one of its 2025 Health Policy Research Scholars. HPRS helps scholars establish and strengthen professional ties to public health and policy leaders, provides training in health equity and policy process, and grants an annual award of up to $30,000 for up to four years or until the scholar completes their doctoral program.
October 14, 2025