Equity and Inclusion
The Office of Equity and Inclusion plays a critical role in enhancing the UTCSW strategic vision, mission, and five college commitments, particularly the fourth commitment of continuing as an anti-racist, equitable, supportive workplace that lives the college’s values through internal and external interactions.
Ongoing Initiatives
Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
The committee serves as an advisory committee to the Associate Dean for Equity and Inclusion (ADEI) and strengthens the College of Social Work’s enduring commitment to the principles of anti-racism, diversity, and equity as required by the CSWE EPAS 2022 and practice in accordance with the NASW Code of Ethics.
Diversity and Inclusion Fellows
The diversity and inclusion fellows support the College of Social Work’s mission of creating an inclusive learning and workplace environment. The DI fellows collaborate with the Associate Dean of Equity and Inclusion (ADEI) to develop and enhance a culture of inclusive excellence among students, faculty, and staff within the College of Social Work (CSW) by engaging in activities and initiatives that foster a welcoming environment.
Social Justice Innovation Initiative
The Social Justice Innovation Initiative
at the College of Social Work was made possible through a gift by longtime college supporter Susan Cooper. The initiative offers a unique framework for understanding many of society’s most pressing issues around education, healthcare, and social justice. The initiative provides grants for students and faculty to challenge social injustices in their communities creatively.
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. Mary Held is the Assistant Dean and MSSW Program Director of the Nashville campus. Dr. Held has dedicated her scholarship to strengthening knowledge related to trauma and resilience in immigrant communities.
Student-led Organizations
Rainbow Collective
The Rainbow Collective is a student-led organization open to current students in the College of Social Work from all programs (BSSW, MSSW, DSW, PhD) who are interested in advocating for the rights of people who identify as LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Queer, and all populations who are marginalized based on their gender identity, sexual orientation, and/or romantic orientation).
The Coalition of Black Social Workers
The student-led Coalition of Black Social Workers exists to engage, connect, and empower Black social work students and professionals in the community, with the goal of increasing awareness about issues specific to the Black community and cultivating a network of support.