Lexington, KY – Celebrating four decades of National Social Work Month, the United States continues to recognize the contributions of social workers every March. This year, the College of Social Work (CoSW) enthusiastically marks this significant month with a diverse array of events in March, highlighting the broad and impactful role of social work across different areas of society.
Launch of National Social Work Month and Kentucky Association of Social Work Educators (KASWE) Spring 2024 Conference
The month’s celebrations will begin with CoSW hosting the KASWE 2024 Spring Conference on March 1st. The conference will feature Ky social workers, social work educators and students in various research presentations and networking. Not only does this event symbolize the kickoff of month-long events on Kentucky’s campus and beyond for National Social Work Month, but it also launches the upcoming CoSW campaign, Social Work is Everywhere.
Social Work Lobby Day, March on Frankfort, and UK Basketball
In March, various states celebrate Social Work Lobby Day. This year, students, alumni, faculty, and staff from the College of Social Work (CoSW) will participate in Kentucky’s Social Work Lobby Day on March 5th. The event provides an opportunity for students to be involved in policy and advocacy activities at Kentucky’s state capital, Frankfort. Additionally, it holds special significance as it commemorates the 50th anniversary of the historic March on Frankfort, where around 10,000 people from Kentucky joined Martin Luther King Jr. in demanding legislative action to eradicate discrimination and segregation in the Commonwealth.
Following this, the UK Social Work Alumni Association (SWAA) is offering tickets to alumni for the UK versus Vanderbilt basketball match at Rupp Arena. This presents a chance for our alumni network to unite, fostering a sense of fellowship and mutual support.
CoSW Pop-up Shop and FREE Continuing Education Opportunities
From the beginning of the month through March 15th, CoSW will host a pop-up shop, inviting faculty, staff, students, alumni to purchase CoSW branded gear for all the year’s upcoming events.
In the spirit of lifelong learning, the CoSW will provide one free online continuing education course to its alumni through the Wildcat Network’s private group, accessible by logging in and navigating to the “Events” tab on the group’s page. Non-members can join Wildcat Network at www.wildcatnetwork.com.
Take Me Back to the Ball Game – CoSW @ KY Proud Park
Join us for College of Social Work Day on March 17 at 1 PM at Kentucky Proud Park as the UK Baseball team takes on Georgia! Before the game, dean Justin “Jay” Miller will throw the first pitch. Plus, there will be an exclusive “tailgate” area just for CoSW. All CoSW faculty, staff, and students can attend the game for free by presenting their UK ID. The college also invites friends and families to attend the game.
Tabling at Gatton Student Center and UK HealthCare Appreciation Days
CoSW will organize a tabling event at GSC on March 21, providing an interactive platform for the campus community to engage with one another and pick up CoSW swag items!
Additionally, in a stance of appreciation, staff and faculty members are planning three Healthcare Appreciation Days to honor and recognize the invaluable contribution of social workers at UK HealthCare facilities including Chandler Hospital, Good Samaritan, and Eastern State Hospital.
The UK College of Social Work is excited to host these events, underscoring the message that social work is indeed everywhere. Join us by amplifying the impact of social work and celebrating its essential role in society!