School of Social Welfare Dean's Update

On May 15, we recognized over 280 graduates and degree candidates from our undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs.

These students leave KU equipped to advocate for justice, lead in behavioral health and community practice, contribute to research and policy, and improve the well-being of individuals, families, and society.

The Class of 2026 included:

Our communities need social workers who are ready to serve immediately in high-demand areas. Please join me in congratulating our graduates and celebrating their achievements, as they move toward a future of helping where they are most needed.

You can share our graduation celebrations with photos from graduation weekend and a collection of graduate spotlight stories.

We welcome your ideas and feedback at kusswdo@ku.edu. Your collaboration helps us meet our mission to educate, train, and support qualified, compassionate social workers.

Take good care and Rock Chalk,

Michelle Carney, PhD, MSSA
Dean and Professor
KU School of Social Welfare

Ahead of graduation, the School of Social Welfare spoke with students across the BSW, MSW and DSW programs. Students shared why they chose social work, what they plan to do with their degrees, and how they aspire to make a difference.

Class of 2026 Graduating Student Spotlights:

BSW: 

MSW: 

DSW: 

Pam Twohill loves connecting with other humans, and that’s the core of her journey as a social worker. She was already a social worker for nearly two decades before she decided to pursue her online Doctor of Social Work degree at KU. Now, as she approaches graduation, Twohill reflects on her education journey.

“I became a social worker about 20 years ago, and I think I knew that one of my biggest strengths was connecting to people," Twohill said.

Get to know more about Twohill as she shares her thoughts ahead of graduation.

The Margo Awards honoring excellence in practicum education are named for Margaret Schutz Gordon, Professor Emeritus, who served with distinction as Professor and Director of Practicum Education at the KU School of Social Welfare from 1970 to 1983.

Congratulations to this year’s winners:

Exceptional Performance in BSW Practicum:
Lily Shine – ReDiscover

Exceptional Performance in MSW Foundation Practicum:
Sabita Keeny - Our Spot KC

Exceptional Performance in MSW Advanced Year Practicum:
Chloe Smith - Munson Army Corrections Brigade
Jenny Yuman - Guadalupe Centers

Excellence in Generalist Practicum Instruction:
Teresa Palmer - Geary County Schools

Excellence in MSW Advanced Year Practicum Instruction:
Kaylee Edwards - Kansas City Kansas Public Schools

Student speakers during the graduate recognition ceremonies are chosen by their fellow graduates. Congratulations to this year's speakers!

One KU School of Social Welfare professor has earned a promotion for the upcoming academic year.

Dr. Juliana Carlson was promoted to full professor with tenure. Carlson, who joined the School in 2013, concentrates on teaching undergraduate and Ph.D. program courses. She has served as program director for the Bachelor of Social Work program since 2022.

Promotions for tenure-track faculty and scholarly positions include review by the University Committee on Promotion and Tenure and final approval by the chancellor.

Conversations for Change: Talking About Substance Use as Part of Integrated Health Care
Friday, June 12
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, Pittsburg, KS
CEU: 6 hours

MSW Information Session
Tuesday, June 16
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Online

DSW Information Session
Wednesday, June 17
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Online

KUSSW at Art in the Park in Garden City
Saturday, June 27
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stevens Park, 502 N. Main St., Garden City, KS
KUSSW is hosting an art-based stress management activity during Art in the Park. Stop by our booth to say hi!

EPSDT: A Crucial Tool for Serving Kansas Kids
Monday, August 17
12-2 p.m.
Online
CEU: 2 hours

Erin Cole, BSW 2003 and MSW 2004, was appointed chief executive officer of the Women’s Employment Network (WEN), beginning her role on April 1. Cole, who previously served as WEN’s chief operating officer, has worked with the organization for 16 years. Read an article about Cole’s new role.

Whether you just received a promotion, started a new position or project, or moved across the country, the School of Social Welfare wants to stay updated on your life adventures. Update your contact information and share your alumni news.

Mary Rita Hillin, MSW 1970, passed away on April 5, 2026, at age 82. Hillin taught in the KU School of Social Welfare as a lecturer from 2008 to 2019. Read obituary.

Shirley Colleen Dwyer, MSW 1999, passed away on April 30, 2026, at age 63. Read obituary.

Graduation is a special day because we get to celebrate the talented, smart, compassionate and eager social workers you all are — and will continue to be.

Thank you so much to the DSW, MSW and BSW students who walked the stage this May and shared such special memories with us. We are so proud of you!

View more photos

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