News

Headshot of SSW Student Nick Grober

Finding purpose and community: How a transfer student immersed himself in Iowa’s BA in Social Work program

Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Nick Grober transferred to the University of Iowa to pursue a BA in Social Work, drawn to the program's experiential learning offerings and tight-knit community.
Laurel Gil Hayes

Making an impact: School of Social Work PhD student aims to increase interest in the aging sciences through research and education

Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Lauren Gil Hayes was recently selected for the Health Policy Research Scholars program, a competitive four-year development program comprised of doctoral students from across the United States of America.
Haelim Jeong headshot

Jeong amplifies voices of suicide attempt survivors

Wednesday, January 14, 2026
CSSI researcher affiliate Haelim Jeong, assistant professor in the School of Social Work, studies suicide prevention, including suicidal ambivalence—the co-occurring desire to live and to die—among suicide attempt survivors. Jeong was also recently selected to be part of a research collaboration supported by CSSI’s Research Convergence Residency Program to explore loneliness, sleep disruption, and the use of AI chatbots such as ChatGPT for mental health support.
Sharaine_Websters

Honoring the life and legacy of Sharaine Webster

Tuesday, October 28, 2025
The School of Social Work remembers Sharaine Webster, whose compassion, advocacy, and dedication to equity shaped the lives of countless students, colleagues, and clients. Her impact on the field and the community will be felt for years to come.
Rob Otto

Building resilience across continents: An Iowa MSW graduate's military mission

Tuesday, October 21, 2025
As Integrated Prevention Chief for the U.S. Air Force in Germany, University of Iowa MSW alumnus Rob Otto leads innovative programs that promote resilience and well-being among service members, families, and civilians.
Kerby_Hanson

From the classroom to counseling: How Iowa changed Kerby Hanson’s life

Monday, September 29, 2025
After 16 years in the classroom, Kerby Hanson found his calling in social work through Iowa’s MSW program. Now a private practice owner, he helps children and families navigate life’s challenges while advocating for vulnerable communities.
Gilster

UI study explores how social work students support public libraries

Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Megan Gilster, associate professor in the School of Social Work, co-led a study showing that placing social work students in public libraries enhances staff empowerment and confidence in serving patrons through a whole-person approach.
Carr

School of Social Work Alum, Debra A. Simpson Carr honored for lifetime of service

Thursday, June 26, 2025
Debra A. Simpson Carr was awarded honorary membership in the Phi Alpha Honor Society at the University of Iowa’s Des Moines commencement, recognizing her lifelong dedication to social work, student support, and community empowerment.
KelleMcCrory

SSW adjunct professor balances teaching and substance abuse research

Wednesday, May 14, 2025
As both the training director for the National Resource Center for Family Centered Practice, and an adjunct professor for the University of School of Social Work, Kellee Thorburn McCrory is making headway in multiple directions.