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Adjunct Professor Tamieka Welsh of the Howard University School of Social Work was recently featured in Essence Magazine for her article, “5 Powerful Ways Black Women Can Protect Their Mental Health After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis.” In it, she explores the connections between mental health, community, and healing for Black women navigating breast cancer. Her work challenges the “Strong Black Woman” narrative and emphasizes the importance of culturally competent care, supportive networks, and self-advocacy. 

The Howard University School of Social Work proudly celebrates its faculty, staff, and alumni who presented at the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) 71st Annual Program Meeting, held October 23–26, 2025, in Denver, Colorado.

With the theme “It’s Time to Act: Championing Disability Justice and Disability Joy in Social Work,” this year’s conference spotlighted conversations around disability justice, inclusion, equity, and community empowerment. From health equity in public housing to inclusive education, trauma-informed practice, and refugee well-being, HUSSW scholars continue to lead nationally in shaping a more just and joyful future for all communities.

The Howard University School of Social Work (HUSSW) marked its 90th Anniversary during Homecoming 2025 with an unforgettable Open House Celebration, honoring nine decades of leadership and scholarship. The evening was filled with heartfelt reflections, inspiring performances, and moments of joy as we celebrated our past and envisioned our future together.

We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who made the evening such a success — our presenters, musicians, alumni, faculty, staff, students, and guests. Your wisdom, creativity, and warmth touched hearts across the room and reminded us why Howard stands as a beacon for social work education and service. Click the card to read more about our enchanted evening, contribute to our anniversary campaign, and view the photo gallery courtesy of Charm Photography.

We celebrate MSW alumna Rachel Pierre, who was appointed Acting Director of the DC Department of Human Services (DHS) on October 9, 2025.

With over two decades of experience across nonprofit and public sectors, Rachel has been a steadfast leader in advancing housing access, youth services, and community-based supports throughout the District. Since joining DHS in 2020, she has championed programs that center dignity, equity, and empowerment for DC residents. Her commitment to service reflects the core values of the Howard University School of Social Work — leadership, justice, and community impact.

Dr. Janice Davis, Dr. Janice Edwards, and Dr. Gloria Cain of the Howard University School of Social Work were selected as Faculty Fellows in the inaugural University Psychedelic Education Program (U-PEP). Held at the Usona Institute, the program equips educators with evidence-based, culturally responsive training on psychedelic-assisted care. The faculty will integrate this emerging content into Howard’s curriculum, preparing students to lead in innovative mental health practices.

Howard University School of Social Work celebrates the leadership of alumna Florence Champagne, MSW, and MSW student Bahati Bridges in advancing critical heart health legislation in Maryland. With support from the Open My Heart Foundation and introduced by Delegate Jamila Woods, MSW, the new law mandates insurance coverage for coronary calcium score testing—a vital screening tool for early detection of heart disease. This achievement highlights Howard’s impact on real-world policy change and its ongoing commitment to health equity and social justice.