Building Stronger Communities Through Social Work Excellence
At the College of Social Work, our commitment to fostering impactful relationships with communities remains at the heart of everything we do. With campuses in Nashville and Knoxville, and a global presence through partnerships and initiatives, our reach is extensive. Faculty, staff, and students collaborate closely with community partners to identify challenges, harness strengths, and implement solutions that drive change at individual, family, community, and national levels.
Faculty and doctoral students at the College of Social Work are advancing research and practice by partnering with social service agencies, schools, hospitals, shelters, prisons, veterans’ organizations, and statewide initiatives. Their work addresses critical issues such as family violence prevention, rural health interventions, empowering deaf individuals in the Dominican Republic, understanding alcohol-related events in grocery stores, and tackling disproportionate school suspensions for Black girls. These efforts, described in our annual report, exemplify our interdisciplinary approach to solving complex societal challenges.
For over 50 years, the Social Work Office for Research and Public Service (SWORPS) has served as the college’s public service arm, delivering applied research, innovative data solutions, and program management expertise. SWORPS supports agencies across Tennessee with projects addressing diverse issues such as mental health courts, early childhood education technical assistance, healthcare needs in Knox County, resources for parents navigating the criminal justice system, and community planning. With over 140 dedicated employees statewide, SWORPS ensures that interventions meet the needs of Tennesseans effectively and sustainably. We are thrilled to celebrate the longevity and impact of this unit.
Our students are also making a significant impact. Each year, more than 600 social work students contribute their time and expertise to health and human services settings across Tennessee and beyond. These students gain invaluable experience working alongside seasoned professionals while learning how to create meaningful change in people’s lives. In 2024–2025 alone, our students contributed over $18,330 in volunteer labor to individuals in need—a testament to their dedication to service.
Amidst a rapidly changing world, the College of Social Work remains steadfast in its mission to serve Tennessee’s communities while preparing future social work practitioners, advocates, and scholars. As we continue to grow and innovate, we invite you to celebrate the incredible achievements of our faculty, staff, students, and partners who embody what it means to be a Social Work Vol.
— Dr. Lori Messinger
Dean of The University of Tennessee College of Social Work