Howard University School of Social Work hosted a virtual alumni-led discussion examining gentrification in Washington, DC through the framework of the Black Perspective. Panelists explored the historical roots of displacement, housing instability, and cultural erasure, emphasizing gentrification as a justice issue shaped by policy choices. The session highlighted the need for structural change, civic engagement, and sustained advocacy to advance housing equity and protect Black communities.
Category: HUSSW Articles
The SSWR Annual Conference brings together leading scholars and practitioners for more than 500 symposia, workshops, and presentations highlighting cutting-edge research methods and critical issues in social work. Howard University School of Social Work is proud to be among the institutions represented at SSWR 2026, contributing scholarship that advances the Black Perspective, interrogates structural inequities, amplifies underrepresented communities, and informs innovative policy and practice. This year, our faculty and doctoral students will present across premier sessions, including special interest groups, policy forums, and research presentations.
The Howard University School of Social Work successfully hosted a 90th Anniversary Food Drive in partnership with the HUSSW Alumni Association (HUSSWAA) and the Student Council Association (SCA), collecting over 1,200 canned goods and non-perishable items to support the Nourish HU Food Pantry. Featured in The Hilltop, the drive showcased the power of community care at Howard
Dr. Husain, Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Academic & Student Advancement at the Howard University School of Social Work, has been honored with the 2025 Social Work Impact Award by the Public Health Social Work (PHSW) Division of the American Public Health Association (APHA).
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 commemorated its 90th Anniversary during Homecoming 2025 with a Open House celebration that brought together alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends for an evening of reflection, music, and community. The program featured historical reflections, inspiring performances, and a special anniversary fundraising campaign honoring nine decades of excellence in social work education.
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.
We are proud to celebrate Howard University School of Social Work alumna Rachel Pierre, who was appointed 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.
Howard University School of Social Work doctoral student Brittany Flournoy has been awarded a fellowship with the Black & Brown Collective Training and Mentorship Program, an initiative supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of California, Davis. As a member of the inaugural 2025–2026 cohort, Brittany joins a network of scholars dedicated to advancing solutions to gun violence in Black and Brown communities.
The Howard University School of Social Work proudly shines an Alumni Spotlight on John E. Jacob, M.S.W. ’63—an iconic figure whose extraordinary career spans civil rights advocacy, corporate leadership, and now, authorship. Jacob’s recently released memoir, I Will Fear No Evil, is both a personal journey and a national call to reflection. In the book, he offers a penetrating assessment of a pivotal era in American history—the Reagan and Bush years—when the country, he argues, ignored critical warnings about the long-term consequences of economic and educational neglect. As President and CEO of the National Urban League from 1982 to 1994, Jacob used his platform to advocate for equity in education, job training, and social services. His voice was among the few consistently calling attention to the widening opportunity gap in American society.
