To support the continued growth of the School of Social Work and the success of its students, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is investing in an expanded practicum education structure for the Social Work program.

Aislinn Conrad, an associate professor of Social Work at the University of Iowa research focuses on child abuse prevention and the ethical integration of artificial intelligence.

Sarah Stevens, practicum and program administrator for the School of Social Work, dedicates herself to helping MSW students thrive in Sioux City.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.