Welcome to the School of Social Work alumni newsletter!
We’re excited to reconnect and share updates from the school, including highlights of our students, faculty, and alumni.
Thank you to everyone who supported the School of Social Work during One Day for Iowa. Your generosity is helping students as they complete their practicum experiences—your support truly makes a difference.
We’re also excited to announce the return our Continuing Education trainings. With the addition of MSW alum Peggy Trosper, we are relaunching these valuable professional development opportunities. Peggy brings a wealth of experience and is eager to provide engaging, relevant learning opportunities for social work professionals. Keep reading to learn more about an upcoming event.
Be on the lookout for an upcoming survey. We want to hear from you! It will help us shape future Continuing Education offerings and give you a chance to reflect on your time in the program.
Thanks for being part of our community—we look forward to staying in touch.
Miriam J. Landsman
Director, School of Social Work
MSW graduate practicing and growing in the College of Law
Sam Ramsey, an MSW graduate, transitioned from engineering to social work to address mental health. Now as the College of Law's embedded therapist, she fosters a supportive, open environment.
Leading the charge for childcare advocacy
Megan Ronnenberg, a passionate alum and visiting faculty member, is using her voice and experience to drive meaningful change in Iowa’s childcare system. Learn how her leadership is paving the way for stronger support for families and providers alike.
Landsman leads new research to support children and families affected by substance exposure
Miriam Landsman, associate professor and chair, has begun her next research project with Iowa Children’s Justice and the UI Child Health Specialty Clinics in southeast Iowa.
Meet Melanie Reed: Supporting our Des Moines MSW program
We’re excited to introduce Melanie Reed as the new Program Specialist for the School of Social Work. As our program continues to grow, Melanie will play a key role in supporting students and ensuring a strong learning experience. Learn more about her and the work happening in Des Moines.
Current MSW student champions community advocacy
Audri Lu-Uhlken is transforming lives with empathy, resilience, and purpose while earning her graduate degree.
MSW graduate brings 20 years of experience to new role in CLAS
Emily Hurst, MSW, brings two decades of experience and her passion for mental health to the student care manager role in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Continue your education with us
SSW graduate programs
Our Master of Social Work (MSW)—offered in Iowa City, Des Moines, Sioux City, and online—and PhD in Social Work programs provide advanced training, research opportunities, and hands-on experience to help you make a greater impact.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your practice, step into leadership roles, or contribute to groundbreaking research, our graduate programs give you the tools and support to succeed.
Upcoming Continuing Education event: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Anxiety
Join us on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM CT for a virtual training on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety. This session will explore the root causes of anxiety, common cognitive distortions, and practical strategies to help clients manage irrational beliefs. Attendees will earn 3.0 CEUs while gaining valuable skills to support individuals struggling with anxiety in their daily lives.
Keep in touch
Explore new opportunities: Social Work positions now open
Visit the School of Social Work Job Board for the latest career openings in the field.
Stay connected
No matter where you are, you're always a Hawkeye. Learn how to stay connected to SSW and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Read the stories of fellow alumni and find out how you can volunteer and hire students. Please also update your contact information so we have your most recent mail and email address so we can stay in touch!