Annual Report 2025
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From Crisis Calls to Community Leaders: The Inspiring Journey of Linda and Marcos Garza
Linda Garza, MSSW 1991; Marcos Garza, MSSW 1998, JD 2001 Linda Garza never planned to become a social worker, but life had other plans. From supervising a telephone help line to earning her master’s degree in social work (MSSW) at UT, Linda’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing new opportunities. But the…
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Student Highlights 2025
KAMAH KARYEAH, BSSW BSSW graduate Kamah Karyeah was one of 10 seniors chosen to receive the Torchbearer award, the university’s highest undergraduate student honor, which reflects demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to service and leadership. Karyeah was also a member of Air Force ROTC, where she had the responsibility for the training and well-being…
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In the Media 2025
UTCSW faculty and researchers are go-to experts for the media, sharing their insights on a wide range of critical topics. Here’s a glimpse of their impactful contributions featured in various media outlets throughout the year. DR. ANDREA JOSEPH-MCCATTYNews Channel 5 Nashville‘They’re crying out for help.’ Some fear Antioch students’ stress will overwhelm them if not…
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Connection, Community, Education: A First-Generation Journey
Many talented practicing social workers have considered getting a doctoral degree but aren’t sure whether to actually pursue the degree. First-generation scholars— those who don’t have a parent with a graduate degree—may have even more questions about advanced study. What is the benefit of the degree? What is the difference between a Doctor of Social…
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SWORPS at 50: Celebrating a Legacy of Impact
The Social Work Office of Research and Public Service (SWORPS) has been an integral part of the University of Tennessee College of Social Work since its establishment in 1975. Originally founded as the Office of Continuing Social Work Education (OCSWE), SWORPS has evolved into a research center that provides specialized professional education, research, and evaluation…
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2025 Annual Report Message from the Dean
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…
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Dr. Kate Chaffin Named 2025 NASW-TN Social Work Educator of the Year
Dr. Kate Chaffin, Assistant Dean for Faculty Development and Clinical Professor at the University of Tennessee College of Social Work (UTCSW), earned statewide recognition as the 2025 Social Work Educator of the Year from the National Association of Social Workers Tennessee Chapter (NASW-TN). The award highlights Chaffin’s dedication to preparing future social workers through innovative…
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From Outreach to Impact: Collaboration is a Key Factor Toward Success
Community Outreach and Engaged Research are both important aspects of any college or institution. Often, they are independent entities with little intersection. But sometimes, in a perfect scenario, they not only intersect but also complement the outcome by incorporating multiple departments, making for a full circle moment. One example of this is a recent partnership…
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From Classroom to Courtroom: A UTCSW Graduate’s Journey to Forensic Social Work
When Megan Riedinger arrived at the University of Tennessee as a pre-law major in 2020, she didn’t yet know her heart was pulling her in a different direction. After a conversation with an advisor from the UT College of Social Work (UTCSW), everything changed. “I wanted a more hands-on education and to feel like I…
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UT College of Social Work Welcomes Seven New Faculty Members
The UT College of Social Work welcomed seven new faculty members this fall. These new outstanding professors will teach at both the Knoxville and Nashville campuses, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and innovative ideas. Jessica Cameron, Clinical Assistant Professor, Nashville CampusJessica Cameron is a highly accomplished clinical social worker and educator with a…