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.
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
Nominations open for 2026 SSW Alumni Awards
Nominations for the School of Social Work 2026 Alumni Recognition Awards are now open and nomination forms will be accepted until November 15. If you know of an alumni who should be considered for the Early Career Achievement Award, Established Impact Award or Social Work Legacy Award, nominate your selection today.
September 9, 2025
Three assistant professors join School of Social Work
The University of Washington School of Social Work is excited to announce that Kamryn Morris, Melanie Morris and Lauren White will join the School as assistant professors this fall quarter. Their research interests span prevention science, oral health equity and mental health in Indigenous communities. We are proud to welcome these outstanding scholars to our faculty and social work community.
August 5, 2025
Sarah Porter wins Grand Challenges for Social Work Doctoral Award
Sarah Fatemeh Porter, Ph.D. candidate at the UW School of Social Work, was selected as one of 14 recipients of the prestigious 2025 Grand Challenges for Social Work Doctoral Award. Founded in 2012 by the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare, the Grand Challenges for Social Work is a groundbreaking initiative to identify and collectively take on our nation’s toughest social problems.
July 25, 2025