Revealing Black trauma can heal Black trauma

Pitt School of Social Work professor Dr. Kyaien O. Conner, Director of the Center on Race and Social Problems and Associate Dean for Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, is at the forefront of a movement to study, train others, and offer community-based healing thru time-honored West African traditions. Read more in the New Pittsburgh Courier.

PhD student 2nd place in Allegheny County Case Competition 

Doctoral student Sommer Blair competed in the Allegheny County Case Competition this past week and out of 20 teams her team placed second, winning a $2500 prize. Their solution to the problems of involuntary commitments in Allegheny County? Advocacy! A person centered approach that provides holistic care to real human beings impacted by traumatic experiences. Read more.

PhD student presented at 2023 APHA 

On Nov 14^th, doctoral student Jenn Lee presented at the 2023 American Public Health Association (APHA) in Atlanta. The presentation was titled: "Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Flourishing among Immigrant Youths". 

Honoring local veterans: Marine and MSW alumna pushing for inclusivity

From an active-duty Marine to now a veteran, MSW alumna Anette Nance continues her mission to be part of something bigger than herself.

"I want to continue to make sure that I show up in a lot of spaces and I show up as myself," she said. "I don't pretend to be anything else."

"I want people to know that it's possible." Watch and read more on WTAE-TV.

School of Social Work Holiday Toy Drive

We are excited to continue supporting our community partners Primary Care Health Services and Alma Illery Medical Center in Homewood as they brings holiday cheer to children ages 4 months through 13 years. From Monday, November 27th through Wednesday, December 13th, you can grab a gift tag on display in the Dean’s suite to purchase and return wrapped gifts for children. 

Suggested gift items include: books; toys; games; non-flammable jammies; and gift cards. All donations should be placed in the donation collection box—in the Dean’s suite—by 5PM on Friday, December 16.

Unhoused Neighbors Need YOUR Help

Thanksgiving Collection drive in the Dean's Office

November 16 - November 22

Please check your closets and bring your spare items in a reusable bag to:

2117 Cathedral of Learning

Hats | Coats | Boots | Sweatshirts | Socks | Gloves | Hand Warmers | Underwear | Blankets | Soap | Shampoo

E-mail Megan Pellechio mep215@pitt.edu for more information

Abney introduces bill for PA to join Social Work Licensure Compact 

MSW alumnus and State representative Aerion Abney introduced a bill that would add Pennsylvania to the list of states who are members of the Social Work Licensure Compact.

The legislation (H.B. 1841) would allow licensed commonwealth social workers or those eligible for a license to apply for the ability to provide their services across multiple states. A comprehensive data system would also be created, so the public could be kept safe and informed with regards to social worker license status and any adverse actions associated with them. Read more.

ICYMI: CRSP Connect

Read the latest issue of CRSPConnect including a story about the recent 2023 Dr. Larry E. Davis Black Excellence in the Academy Awards. Read here.

BASW Club Food Drive

The BASW club is hosting a food drive for Pittsburgh's Greater Community Food Bank. Visit their donation site.