Monthly Monitor: SSWR 2025
In this issue of the Monthly Monitor, we provide strategies for the dissertation process, a guide for first time conference attendees, and highlight doctoral students’ achievements and activities within the SSWR 2025 Annual conference.
This issue includes
Message from SSWR DSC Chair, Fatima Abdelmoneim Mabrouk (She/Hers)
Strategies for Maintaining Momentum During the Dissertation Process by Julisa Tindall (She/her)
Guide for First-Time Conference Attendees, Produced by the Mentoring Sub-Committee
Showcasing Doctoral Students at SSWR 2025 Annual Conference
Doctoral Student Spotlights: Celebrating Doctoral Students Accomplishments
Events at SSWR 2025
Message from SSWR DSC Chair
Fatima Abdelmoneim Mabrouk (She/Hers)
Image Description:
Closeup of Student Director-at-Large Fatima Mabrouk standing on a roof deck with red brick buildings and blue sky in the background. Fatima has curly shoulder length hair with blonde highlights and wears a silver necklace, a black long sleeve shirt, and silver bracelets.
Welcoming the SSWR Community into 2025
Dear SSWR Community,
As I enter my one-year as Student-Director-at-Large and Chair of the SSWR Doctoral Student Committee, I am determined to make this journey a transformative one. This role is allowing me to build upon the strong foundation established by my predecessors while advancing doctoral students' interests across the nation. Our push for our visibility and support will be unwavering as we work to amplify OUR voices, secure additional resources, and create meaningful opportunities for collaboration and growth within the social work research community. The Communications Sub-committee has consistently delivered resource-rich newsletters, while our Conference and Mentoring teams have enhanced student programming at SSWR (e.g., student social hour, meet the scientist, coffee with a scholar, student luncheons). In addition, our newest the Student-engagement Sub-committee assisting and supporting students with resources they need to know. We have secured travel grant funding for students and additional support for DSC sub-committee leaders and members, making conference attendance more accessible.
I am grateful to be welcomed by our long-standing tenure co-chairs, returning members, former Student Director-at-Large. Thus far, the relationships fostered both with student members and faculty members, have been invaluable. I am deeply thankful to everyone who supported my appointment through their votes and nomination letters.
My commitment to advancing critical social work science and promoting equity within our profession remains unwavering. I'm excited to continue this legacy and when my time comes to pass the torch down to the next exceptional candidate to build upon these foundations and take our initiatives to even greater heights.
To our dedicated DSC leadership: Thank you for your unwavering dedication and hard work. Your efforts have shaped SSWR into what it needs to be and continue to inspire me to lead with purpose and determination. I look forward to connecting with many of you at SSWR in Seattle where we have prepared numerous engaging student sessions.
Information About SSWR 2025 and how you can get involved with the Doctoral Student Committees:
For those interested in getting involved, our student committees (Mentoring, Communications, Conference, and Student Engagement) continue to thrive under excellent co-chair leadership. These leaders are prepared to guide you through the SSWR Conference experience and help you navigate various opportunities for involvement. Please check our DSC pageto reach out to our co-chairs for more information about joining these dynamic committees.
With Gratitude,
Fatima A. Mabrouk, MSW
(She/Hers)
Strategies for Maintaining Momentum During the Dissertation Process
Julisa Tindall (She/her)
Image credit: Disabled and Here
Image description (also embedded in the image): Close-up of a Filipinx woman with a filtering face mask, sitting at a table with notebook and pen. She has colorful flower earrings and headphones on while looking into the distance.
Remember, consistent effort is more valuable than perfection; every small step brings you closer to the finish line.
The dissertation process is one of the most rewarding yet challenging aspects of the doctoral journey. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when juggling research, writing, teaching, and personal commitments, all while facing the daunting reality of an unfinished manuscript. Yet, maintaining momentum is key to progress—and ultimately to completing our degree. Whether you are battling writer’s block, competing priorities, or losing motivation, these strategies can help you stay productive and on track.
Setting the Foundation for Success
Before diving into the writing process, it is essential to establish a solid foundation. A realistic plan and clear priorities can make the difference between spinning your wheels and making tangible progress.
Create a Realistic Plan: The dissertation is a marathon, not a sprint. Break it down into manageable chunks by creating a timeline with specific milestones. Tools like Gantt charts, project management apps, or even a simple calendar can help you visualize your progress and stay organized. Set achievable weekly goals to build confidence and track momentum.
Time Blocking and Prioritization: Protect your writing time as if it were a critical appointment. Allocate blocks of time specifically for dissertation work and resist the temptation to multitask. Joining a writing group or partnering with another student to have writing sessions together (in-person or virtual) can help hold accountability for keeping that time for writing blocked. Prioritize tasks that have the most significant impact—like data analysis or drafting chapters—rather than getting bogged down by less critical tasks.
Overcoming Writer’s Block
Writer’s block can feel like an insurmountable hurdle, but it doesn’t have to derail your progress. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike, try these practical approaches to push past the block.
Write Before You Feel Ready: It is tempting to wait for the “perfect idea” or the right moment, but progress comes from simply starting. Allow yourself to write a rough, imperfect draft. It’s easier to revise a messy page than a blank one. Free-writing exercises or responding to prompts can help jump-start the process.
Tackle Smaller, Simpler Tasks: When the larger goals feel overwhelming, break them down into bite-sized tasks. For example, instead of aiming to "write the methods chapter," focus on specific steps like drafting a paragraph about your recruitment process or formatting your references. Completing these smaller tasks can build momentum and make the overall process less daunting.
Change Your Environment: A change of scenery can do wonders for creativity. If your usual workspace isn’t cutting it, try working in a new location, like a library, café, or co-working space. Noise-canceling headphones or background music can also help minimize distractions and boost focus.
Seek Inspiration: If you’re feeling stuck, take a step back and read related dissertations, journal articles, or even popular science books in your field. Conversations with peers or mentors can also spark new ideas and offer clarity.
Managing Competing Priorities
Doctoral students often balance multiple roles and responsibilities, from teaching to personal obligations. Without proper management, competing priorities can drain energy and derail progress.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to non-essential commitments, especially during critical phases of your dissertation. Politely but firmly communicate your priorities to others, and don’t feel guilty about prioritizing your academic goals.
Leverage Support Systems: You don’t have to go through the process alone. Accountability partners, writing groups, and faculty advisors can provide structure, feedback, and encouragement. Sharing your struggles with trusted peers can also remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.
Delegate and Simplify: Look for ways to streamline your daily responsibilities. Batch-cook meals for the week, use free or inexpensive grocery pickup services, or swap small favors with friends or family (like watching their pet in exchange for help with errands). Focus your energy on what only you can do: your dissertation.
Staying Motivated Through Challenges
Even the most disciplined students face periods of doubt or burnout. Staying motivated requires intentional effort to nurture your mental and emotional well-being.
Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward is a victory. Celebrate finishing a chapter draft, collecting data, or sticking to your weekly writing schedule. These small moments of success can help sustain your momentum.
Visualize Your Goals: Keep your end goal in sight. Whether it’s a photo of your graduation robe, a motivational quote on your desk, or a list of professional opportunities that await you post-graduation, tangible reminders of your purpose can reignite your determination.
Take Breaks Strategically: Burnout is the enemy of productivity. Schedule restorative breaks to recharge, whether it’s a quick walk, a guided meditation, or simply spending time with loved ones. These moments of self-care can help you return to your work with renewed focus.
The dissertation process is demanding, but you can stay productive and motivated through every stage with intentional planning and practical strategies. Remember, consistent effort is more valuable than perfection; every small step brings you closer to the finish line. Trust in your ability to navigate this journey, and don’t hesitate to lean on the resources and support systems around you. You’ve got this!
SSWR 2025 First Time Attendee Guide
SSWR DSC Mentoring Sub-Committee
Image depicts the skyline of Seattle, Washington at sun-rise or sunset, as the sky is a vibrant but pale orange that fades to a light purplish blue hue. There are green trees in the front of the picture. Behind the trees are various office buildings and skyscrapers, including the Space needle. In the distance, there is a mountain with snow on top.
SSWR 2025 First-Time Attendee Guide
Below is the text of the attendee guide, organized by the Mentoring Sub-Committee of SSWR Doctoral Student Committee 2024-2025. This guide is also accessible through this link.
We are so glad you are here!
We know that it can be overwhelming to attend this scale of conference for the first time, so here are some helpful tips and tricks to enhance your experience.
Navigating the Conference
Plan Ahead: Review the schedule, select your favorite sessions, and use the SSWR app to organize your choices.
Choose Strategically: Attend sessions in your research area, explore new topics, or support colleagues and peers.
Stay Flexible: Feel free to "session-hop" to catch talks that interest you most.
Allow Travel Time: Factor in time between sessions for navigating the venue.
Utilize Networking: Impromptu conversations can lead to great networking opportunities.
Helpful Reminders
Keep your conference badge with you for admission to all sessions and events, but remove it when leaving the conference area.
Charge your devices nightly and bring your charger with you.
Don't leave your devices unattended when charging.
Bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Remember to take time to explore Seattle.
Set small goals. Aim to introduce yourself to one or two new people per day.
Use breaks strategically. Step out to recharge if you feel overwhelmed.
How do I feel involved?
Start conversations, especially with those around you!
Attend a Special Interest Group (SIG) Meeting
Exchange contact information and follow-up after the conference Attend a networking event (e.g,. Doctoral Student social events)
What are the types of sessions I could attend?
Plenary: Large sessions where prominent speakers address topics relevant to all attendees
Workshops: Interactive sessions focused on teaching specific techniques
Oral Presentation: 3-4 individual presentations around a common theme
Flash Talk : 7 shorter oral presentations with a 20 minute Q&A
ePoster gallery: Self-guided displays with authors available to discuss their research
Symposium: Multiple presenters sharing interrelated research findings, coordinated by a moderator
Roundtable: Facilitated, discussion-based sessions encouraging in-depth dialogue on a specific topic
Suggested Activities
We encourage you to try to check off at least 3, but we challenge you to try and complete them all!
Attend 3 types of sessions
Go to a SIG meeting
Attend a networking event
Get contact information of 2 people with shared research interestsInvite someone to lunch or dinner
Ask a question at one of the sessions you attend
Visit the ePoster gallery and talk to at least one presenterAttend a session in your research area
Explore a session outside your field to learn something new
Unlocking Your Potential, Unleashing Your Success
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and speak up! Most attendees at SSWR are more than happy to start a conversation with you, provide clarifying information, and help you to be successful. When in doubt, you can always reach out to someone at the registration desk, or a staff/volunteer member. Remember, SSWR 2025 is an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow professionally. Enjoy the conference!
If you experience or witness any form of harassment, including language harassment, immediately leave the situation and report it to conference staff. Your safety and comfort are paramount.
Doctoral Students at SSWR 2025: Showcasing PhD Students’ Activities at the Upcoming Conference
Image depicts three people standing infant of a red and black Rutgers college sign at SSWR 2024 Annual Conference. The people are having a conversation and smiling.
Doctoral Students at SSWR 2025
We sent out requests during November and December to gather a list of doctoral students presenting at SSWR 2025. We hope that this list can be used to foster connections and allow for more opportunities for networking among doctoral students.
Shawn McNally, MSW, LICSW (he/him/his), a fourth year PhD student at University of South Carolina
Presentation Title: Child and Adult Appraisal of Child Mental Health Problems: A Latent Class Analysis
Co-Authors: Maryah S. Fram, MSW, PhD; Bethany A. Bell, MPH, PhD
Co-Authors: Maryah S. Fram, MSW, PhD; Cheri J. Shapiro, PhD; Crystal R. Hill-Chapman, PhD, LP, NCSP, ABPP; Chelsea Richard, PhD, MSPH
Details: The poster explores what was learned from focus groups concerning the impact of childcare TA on childcare workers
Julisa Tindall (LISW-CP) (she/her), a fourth year PhD student at University of South Carolina College of Social Work
Presentation Title: Black Maternal Healthcare Experiences in South Carolina.
Description: I will present findings from a study examining Black mothers' experiences with maternal health services and structural racism in South Carolina. Through interviews, three main themes emerged: navigating healthcare access, the role of interpersonal support, and confronting systemic barriers. These insights emphasize the need for culturally competent care, policy reform, and community support to improve maternal health outcomes.
Leah Munroe (LMSW) (she/her/hers), a third year PhD student at Louisiana State University
Presentation Title: Differences in Perceived Difficulty in Obtaining Illegal Drugs by County Population Size.
Details: This abstract examines the difficulty people have in obtaining illegal drugs (with a focus on heroin) in rural versus urban counties.
Co-Authors: Gregory Purser
Poster Title: LSD Use and Perceptions Among Older Adults
Co-Authors: Gregory Purser
Poster Title: Correlates of Cannabis Concentrates Use Among Older Adults
Co-Authors: Gregory Purser
Jordan Goodwin (LSW, MDiv) (she/her/hers), a sixth year PhD student at Rutgers University
Presentation Title: Exploring Social Capital within the Social Networks of LGBTQ+ Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness: A Mixed Methods Approach
Details: I will be presenting my dissertation research as part of the session devoted to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. This presentation will be presented within the Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth session on Sunday January 19 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.
Erick da Luz Scherf, MSW, PhD (Student) (he/him/ele), a second year PhD student at The University of Alabama School of Social Work
Presentation Title: Migration Policies as Social Determinants of Health Among International Graduate Students in the United States
Description: This poster presentation will address the impact of migration policies on the health and well-being of international graduate students in the United States. Our findings underscore the need for policy reform to promote their health and success and create a more equitable society.
Co-Authors: Jihye Lee, MSW, and Mitra Naseh, PhD
Sommer Blair, MSW, LISW-CP (she/her), a third year PhD student at University of Pittsburgh
Presentation Title: Personal Growth Versus Parental Action: White Parents’ Stories and Struggles of Translating Racial Knowledge to Practice
Description: This presentation explores how White parents engage with critical consciousness training and the barriers they face when translating racial equity knowledge into parenting practices. Findings from interviews with participants of the Racial Equity Consciousness Institute reveal key factors influencing racial socialization strategies and offer practical recommendations for designing interventions tailored to White parents, emphasizing the connection between personal growth and anti-racist parenting.
Hannah Boyke, MSW (They/them), Fifth Year PhD Candidate at Michigan State University
Presentation Title: State Paid Family Leave: A Tool for Infant Maltreatment Prevention
Co-Authors: Jenny Tanis, MSW, PhD (First Author); Sasha Kline (PhD)
Poster Title: Immigration Detention at the Intersection of Police Surveillance and Economic Capacity
Michelle Zaragoza, MSW, LCSW (She/Ella), a second year PhD student at University of California, Berkeley
Presentation title: A Participatory Approach to Exploring Well-Being Among Central American Unaccompanied Immigrant Youth Using Mapas Corporales and Testimonios
Description: Michelle will present preliminary findings from a community-engaged arts-based qualitative study that utilizes Body Mapping and Testimonios to explore Latinx Unaccompanied immigrant youth's mental health and well-being upon their migration, adjustment, and resettlement to the U.S.
Shamila Sivakumaram (She/her), a third year PhD student at School of Social Work, University of Texas Arlington
Presentation title: The Impact of Parental Participation, Adverse Childhood Experiences, Socioeconomic Factors, and Parental Mental Health on the Flourishing of Adolescents
Description:This study aims to delve deep into the nuanced interplay between the detrimental effects of ACEs and the potentially mitigating role that parental involvement can play in fostering resilience and positive outcomes in children and adolescents.
Cheng Chow (MPhil) (he/they), a first year PhD student at The University of Texas at Austin
Presentation Title: Unveiling the Patterns and Drivers of Immigrant Health Integration Policies: A Global Examination on MIPEX Countries
Description: This presentation explores the patterns and drivers of immigrant health integration policies across 56 countries using the MIPEX health strand data. By categorizing policy patterns and identifying key drivers—such as healthcare capacity, migration dynamics, and institutional development—the study sheds light on how policies shape immigrant well-being. Findings highlight the diversity in global approaches and emphasize the need for context-specific strategies to address immigrant health disparities and enhance integration efforts.
Juliann Li Verdugo (LMSW) (she/her), a second year PhD student at University of Washington
Presentation Title: The lived experiences and needs of Asian American caregivers for severe mental illness: A qualitative scoping review
Description: This poster presentation reviews current qualitative literature and findings on Asian caregivers for loved ones diagnosed with a severe mental illness in the United States.
Co-Authors: Danae Dotolo, PhD, MSW, MA (Assistant Professor)
Carina Montoya, MSW, CCTS-S (she/they), a third year PhD student at Case Western Reserve University
Presentation Title: Healing from Child and Adolescent Sexual Violence Among Gender Expansive Populations: An Integrative Review
Description: I completed a systematic integrative review regarding healing from early sexual trauma with gender expansive individuals. I will be presenting the results of this review including who has been represented in the empirical literature and what healing mechanisms were identified for this population. My goal for this presentation is to bring greater awareness of growth and healing among gender expansive populations into the discussion of violence treatment and prevention
Co-Authors: Katie Russell
Olivia D. Chang (MS, MSW, LLMSW) (she/her), a third year PhD student at University of Michigan School of Social Work
Presentation Title: The Protective Impact of Childcare Subsidies on the Emotional Neglect of Children.
Description: Mothers who received childcare subsidies reported increased self-efficacy compared to those who did not, which in turn, was associated with significantly lower levels of emotional neglect toward children. Findings therefore point to key benefits of childcare subsidies to reduce emotional neglect.
Co-Authors: Olivia D. Chang (presenting author); Kathryn Maguire-Jack; Katherine E. Marçal; Kathryn Showalter; Yanghyun Park; Rujeko O. Machinga; Eric Thibodeau; Catherine A. Murphy; J. Bart Klika
Suh Kyung Lee (she/her/hers), a third year PhD student at The University of Chicago
Presentation Title: Who Fills out a Tax Return and a Special Form for the EITC?
Presentation Title: Mothers' Nonstandard Work Schedules and Children's Behavior Problems: The Moderating Role of Social Support
Priyanjali Chakraborty (M.A) (She/Her), a fourth year PhD student at The University of Texas at Arlington
Poster Title: Race and Gender-Based Differences in Perceptions of DEI Among School Students in Michigan
Co-Authors: Amber Williams and Dr Poco Kernsmith
Molly Nantongo (BSWSA and MSW) (She/Her), a second year PhD student at Arizona State University
Presentation Title 1: Social Support, HIV Care Engagement, and Intimate Partner Violence Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women Living with HIV: A Qualitative Study.
Co-Authors: Dr. Ijeoma Nwabuzor Ogbonnaya, Dr. Janet Nakigudde, Rose Naigino, Dr. Abel Mwebembezi, Dr. Jamila K. Stockman, Dr. Wendee M. Wechsberg, Dr. Rhoda K. Wanyenze, Dr. Flavio F. Marsiglia, Dr. Yunro Chung, Dr. Judith A. Hahn, Dr. Susan M. Kiene
Presentation Title 2: The Role of Alcohol Use and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in HIV Care Engagement Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women Living with HIV in Uganda (AGYWLHIV)
Co-Authors: Dr. Ijeoma Nwabuzor Ogbonnaya, Dr. Janet Nakigudde, Rose Naigino, Dr. Abel Mwebembezi, Dr. Jamila K. Stockman, Dr. Wendee M. Wechsberg, Dr. Rhoda K. Wanyenze, Dr. Flavio F. Marsiglia, Dr. Yunro Chung, Dr. Judith A. Hahn, Dr. Susan M. Kiene
Details: I will be presenting two papers on my ongoing research focused on improving HIV care engagement among Ugandan adolescent girls and young women. These presentations highlight the Kisoboka Mukwano Intervention, which addresses male partner alcohol use and intimate partner violence to enhance HIV care outcomes.
Jax Kynn, MSW (They/Xe), a fifth year PhD Candidate at Michigan State University
Roundtable: Reproductive Coercion in Emerging Policy Contexts: A Call for Social Work Research
Co-Presenters: Heather McCauley, ScD and Leila Wood, PhD
Presentation Title: We Need to Move Away from Systems to Community Engagement: Sexual and Gender Minority Youth in Foster Care
Co-Author: Dana Prince, PhD (presenting author)
Alauna Adams, MSW, RCSWI (she/her), PhD Candidate at University of Alabama
Poster Title: Healthcare Access Barriers and Facilitators Among Youth Leaving Foster Care: A Scoping Review
Co-Authors: Anthony Abshire; Natalia Smith, LICSW; Leah Cheatham, PhD, JD
Ita Kofman, PhD student, MSW (She/her), a second year PhD student at Bar Ilan
Presentation Title: Utilization of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services Among People Coping with Severe Mental Illnesses: The Contribution of Knowledge, Attitudes, Relationship with the Professional Mental Healthcare Provider, and Shared Decision-Making
Description: At the SSWR 2025 conference, I will present findings from a study examining factors contributing to the utilization of psychiatric rehabilitation services (PRS) among individuals coping with severe mental illness (SMI) in Israel. The study highlights the critical role of service users' knowledge and attitudes, as well as provider-client collaborative factors, such as the quality of the therapeutic relationship and shared decision-making. Emphasis will be placed on how these elements influence service utilization and the implications for policy, practice, and future research aimed at fostering recovery, quality of life, and community integration for individuals with SMI.
Co-Author: Rena Bina, PhD, MSW
Qihao Zhan (MSW, MPA) (She, her, hers), a fourth year PhD student at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Presentation Title: Latinx Respects: Soliciting Youth Input on a Theatre-Based Dating Violence Intervention
Description: This study responds to the need for a brief, culturally competent, and theatre-based dating violence intervention for Latinx youth.
Co-Authors: Heidi Rueda, PhD (presenting author); M. Candace Christensen
Presentation Title: Exploring the Impact of Childhood Experiences in Family System on Intimate Partner Violence Among College Students at a HBCU
Description: The study was conducted with college students who were enrolled at a historical black college/university. Based on the findings, initiating IPV prevention efforts during childhood, with a primary focus on enhancing and promoting family support, could be an effective strategy for mitigating the risk of IPV in adulthood.
Co-Authors: Erika La Frano; Soonok An, PhD; Chiquitia Welch-Brewer, PhD
Hannah Shanks (MSW) (she/hers), a second year PhD student at Saint Louis University
Poster Title: Predictors of Access to Mental Health Care and Virtual Health Care Access in Rural Areas
Description: Examines the role of rurality and internet access as predictors of mental health and virtual health care access using the 2022 National Health Information Survey (NHIS).
Sangmi Kim (MSW) (She, her), a second year PhD student at University of Tennessee Knoxville, College of Social Work
Presentation Title: Analyzing Three Decades of Youth Suicidality Trends: A Meta-Analysis of YRBS Data.
Description: This presentation analyzes 30 years of YRBS data using Polyvagal Theory to understand adolescent suicide trends. It highlights protective factors like physical activity and inclusive policies, while identifying risk factors such as substance use, depression, insufficient sleep, and trauma. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, including trauma recovery, stress management, and inclusive social programs, to prevent suicide and support adolescent mental health.
Co-Authors: Hong-Jun Yoon, Ph.D.; Gang Seob Jung, PhD; J. Douglas Coatsworth, Ph.D.
Jen Hirsch, LMSW-Clinical, APHSW-C (they/she), a fourth year PhD student at Michigan State University
Description: We will be reviewing the ASWB pass rate disparities and empirical evidence regarding the exam. Our panel discussion will focus on advocacy efforts and coalition building, looking at state-level initiatives, and sharing strategies for translating research into action.
Co-Authors: Bryan Victor, Michael Massey, Sheryl Kubiak, Matt DeCarlo, and Janelle Goodwill.
Joana Tolchinsky (née Lampe) (MSW) (she/her), a fourth year PhD student at Michigan State University
Presentation Title: Does state-level Medicaid expansion reduce racial disparity in the U.S. child welfare system? A difference-in-difference analysis
Description: Utilizing a difference-in-difference analysis, we explored whether Medicaid expansion reduced racial disparity in the child welfare system.
Co-Authors: Dr. Sacha Klein, Jacob Nason (MSW)
SSWR 2025 Information and Events
Image Description: Image depicts various groups of people in business and business casual clothing talking and walking throughout the lobby of the Marriott Marquis Washington DC during SSWR 2024 conference. In the foreground, there are pillars with photos historical buildings printed on them, which connect to the white ceiling. The lobby opens up into an expansive atrium, with modern white and grey architecture in the background. The floors are white tile detailed with thick black lines in an abstract pattern.
With SSWR 2025 just around the corner, we hoped to showcase some of the amazing events that happening.
The full listing of special interest groups is available through the SSWR 2025 Program. A listing of student events is available on SSWR’s conference webpage.
2025 Student Social Hour
January 16, 2025 from 7:30-9:30PM
Join the SSWR DSC for the annual student social hour—free and open to all students. The social hour will take place at the Sheraton Grand Seattle, Grand Ballroom A, Level 2.
There will be games, light refreshments, and music!
Flyer depicts two orange colored, cartoon anthropomorphic stars. The border of the image contains dark indigo stars of varying shapes. The flyer reads “It’s time to disco. Join our 1970s-themed gathering for fames, treats, music, and fun with friends. Student social hour: free, light refreshments, 7:30-9:30PM, 16 January 2025 | Sheraton Grand Seattle, Grand Ballroom A, Level 2 (Sponsored by the DSC)
2025 Annual SSWR Student LuncheoN
Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 12:30-1:45 PM
Topic: Palestine, Free Speech, and DEI Bans: Social Work’s Response to Silencing Tactics, Genocide, and Systemic Injustice
This free event is open to all doctoral students and lunch is provided! The Student Luncheon will be located at the Grand Ballroom D, Level 2 Sheraton Grand Seattle.
Speakers include
Sireen Irsheid, PhD, The University of Chicago
Amie Thurber, PhD, Portland State University
Adam McCormick, PhD, University of Texas at El Paso
Brianna Suslovic, MSW, The University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice
Aneelah Afzali, American Muslim Empowerment Network
Details about the topic:
Social Work’s inaction in the face of ongoing genocide across the world speaks the disparities between our ethical principles and practical actions. This silence in the face of genocide is part of a larger tendency within social work to neglect our obligation to stand with the most marginalized and oppressed, locally and globally. This silencing is occurring within the context of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion bas and through the practice of violence and academic discipline towards students, staff, and faculty for exercising their right to free speech and protest.
This year’s Student Luncheon convenes a diverse group of social work scholars, educators, organizers, and practitioners to discuss and promote a dialogue on: 1) Silencing tactics, and the politics of free speech within the context of Critical Race Theory and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion bans, 2) Encampment for Palestine and the importance of advocacy and resistance, 3) Utilizing the case of Palestine as well as Haiti, Sudan, and Congo to highlight Social Work’s responsibility in promoting a unified approach to addressing systemic inequalities and advocating for human rights.
Image description: The flyer contains the SSWR logo on the left, top corner, in which abstract blue and green figure icons create a 3/4 circle abuts the words “SSWR Society for Social Work and Research” in blue text. The top right corner reads “2025 Annual SSWR Student Luncheon” in dark blue font. Underneath, a dark blue box introduces the topic of the Luncheon and the speakers’ photos are below that. Details of the event are below (which are stated in the event description) in white text over a dark blue background. Blue text in front of a green background notes that the event is free and open to all students and that lunch will be provided.
International & Multicultural Subcommittee Gathering
The SSWR Doctoral Student Committee and the International Multicultural Mentoring Sub-Committee are inviting students to connect at the SSWR Annual Conference!
If you ware interested please access the Google Form using the QR code on the flyer or the button below. Individuals who fill out the form will be asked to provide their information, including their phone number and email address.
Image description: The SSWR DSC logo is at the top of the flyer, which includes an abstract green circular design to the left of the words “Society for Social Work and Research Doctoral Student Committee” in teal font. The flyer has a mint green background with cream colored star and squiggle designs in each corner. Dark blue font reads “Get Together!”. Underneath is a cream colored box that contains information about the event (which is stated in the text of the event description) and the QR code for accessing the event.
Black @ SSWR Special interest Group
Friday, January 17, 2025 from 12:30 - 1:30 PM PST
This SIG will be located at Sheraton Grand Seattle, Greenwood Level 3.
For SSWR 2025, we will be hosting Black @ SSWR, a space for Black scholars within social work to connect at SSWR and build community.
We'll have introductions and collective freedom. We hope that you will be able to join us there! This SIG is convened by Alize Hill, AM and Taylor Reed, MSW, co-chairs of the Conference Committee.
Use the QR code on the flyer or click the button below to RSVP.
Image Description: The flyer’s border has 3 levels, which starts with black at the outermost edges and is followed by green and a medium yellow. The center of the flyer is red, and there is a thick black horizontal strip in the center. At the top of the flyer, the words “Black @ SSWR” are in red and a top a black paint brush stroke highlighting. Text in front of the black horizontal border introduces the event’s time and location. Underneath that, on top of the red background, the text reads “Introductions and collective freedom dreaming followed by an informal kickback with music and uno”. A black panther is at the bottom left corner, and there is a QR code with the words “RSVP HERE!” in the right bottom corner.
Doctoral Student Spotlight
Image depicts a non-binary person writing in an unlined, cream colored journal at a dark wooden desk. The persons head is out of focus, and only their right arm is visible. The person has tattoos on their right arm and wears a silver ring on their index finger.
Social Work Doctoral Student Accomplishments
The image depicts a Korean woman with a light skin tone and shoulder-length brown hair, smiling at the camera. She stands in front of a white background, wearing a plaid dress in shades of dark blue and green, featuring short sleeves and button details.
Congratulations Sangmi Kim (she/her)!
Sangmi is a doctoral student at the University of Tennessee’s School of Social Work who was recently selected for the 2024 Fall Cohort of the Community Engagement Academy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As the principal investigator, Sangmi was awarded a $1,000 grant for her project titled "CBPR-Based AI Digital Storytelling to Address Social Isolation and Prevent Suicide." This project focuses on utilizing artificial intelligence to enhance digital storytelling techniques that help reduce social isolation and prevent suicide among youth. This recognition highlights the innovative application of technology in community engagement practices
Learn more about the Community Engagement Academy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville here.
Learn about Sangmi’s research
“My research explores enhancing youth resilience through AI-based digital storytelling, developed in collaboration with computer science. This approach is grounded in Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR), enabling youth to express their stories digitally, thereby enhancing their emotional stability and social connectivity. Additionally, I employ a data-driven approach that integrates advanced statistics and machine learning to optimize social welfare practices and policy development. This method focuses on using large-scale data analysis to predict and improve the effectiveness of social welfare policies.”
Read Sangmi’s recent publication:
Kim, S. (2024). A conceptual framework for mobile-based cyberbullying-related youth suicide risk screening and intervention. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 1-23. https://doi.org/10.1080/10911359.2024.2318447
Image depicts Mavis Smith, a Caribbean American with a dark skin tone, shoulder length black hair worn in twists. She wears a light brown jacket and a white crew-neck shirt. Mavis smiles warmly at the camera while leaning against a wooden wall.
Congratulations Mavis Smith (She/her)!
Congratulations on your presentation and teaching position Mavis Smith (she/her)!
About Mavis’ accomplishment:
“I successfully presented my proposed dissertation at the CSWE conference. My entire faculty was present and provided excellent feedback. As a result, I will be teaching the Cultural Diversity Course at Yeshiva in Spring 2025!”.
About Mavis Smith:
Mavis Smith, LCSW, is a second-generation Caribbean American and 3rd year social work doctoral student at Yeshiva University. She earned her master's degree in Social Work at New York University, which equipped her with the knowledge and skills to provide effective clinical support. Currently, she works as a kidney transplant social worker, psychotherapist, and Ph.D. student. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in Social Welfare at Yeshiva University, focusing on Diabetes Mellitus in the African American community. Her interests include chronic illness, racial disparities in healthcare, and mental health.
Mavis is also a member of the Aging and Welfare Lab at Yeshiva University.
In addition, Mavis presented at Council for Social Work Education’s 2024 Annual Conference. Her presentation was titled “Experiences and U.S Born Black Americans, African-Born Immigrants, and Afro- Caribbean Immigrants with Diabetes Mellitus Type I&II in NYC”
Congratulations Obi Onyegesi (he/him)!
Obi is a social work PhD student at the University of Texas at Austin who has major accomplishments to share, including a recent award, fellowship, and op-ed publication!
About Obi’s accomplishments:
Obi notes that “In September 2024, I was honored with the Dean Barbara W. White Excellence Fund in Social Work Education and Leadership Award. Upon entering the Steve Hicks School of Social Work doctoral program, I became the first Black male doctoral student admitted in over five years. I was also awarded the prestigious National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) T-32 fellowship as one of its inaugural predoctoral inductees. This fellowship, a collaboration between UT Austin’s Steve Hicks School of Social Work and Dell Medical School, supports my interdisciplinary socioecological research on health disparities in cardiovascular and respiratory diseases affecting Black communities.
Additionally, my op-ed on the detrimental effects of Texas Senate Bill 17, which bans Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in academia, was published in the Austin American-Statesman. The piece explores the challenges and systemic barriers such legislation creates for the recruitment and retention of Black doctoral students and tenure-track faculty, as well as its broader implications for diversity, innovation, and inclusion at leading public institutions”
About Obi:
Obi Onyegesi is a UT doctoral student in social work and a NHLBI T32 Research Training Program to Promote Scientist Diversity and Health Equity in Cardiovascular and Lung Disease pre-doctoral fellow.
Image depicts Obi, a Black person with razor cut black hair smiling at the camera. Obistands in front of a grey background, wearing a grey blazer, glasses, and a green turtleneck.
Image depicts Maureen, a black lady with braided hair, smiling at the camera. Maureen stands in front of a white wall, wearing a red checkered shirt and a black skirt.
Congratulations Maureen Mguni (she/her)!
Maureen, a 4th year doctoral student at Anglia Ruskin University, has several recent accomplishments to share: “I published 6 publications related to my PhD, recently published a chapter in a book, produced podcasts and webinars aimed at social work students and professionals. I have included literature on Female Genital Mutilation and my findings in the modules I teach, including Contemporary Social Work and the Social Work Law Module, to enable social workers to assess risk effectively, as well as learn how to work with FGM affectees. I have presented my PhD findings at over 20 international and national conferences. I have significantly contributed to decolonising social work via mentorship as well as publishing. I am a trendsetter and keen to challenge oppression and systemic injustice.”
Learn more about Maureen:
Maureen Mguni a Social Work Professional, Educator and Consultant, with expertise in Child Protection, Mental Health and safeguarding with particular emphasis on Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG). Her experience and ongoing Doctoral Research on Female Genital Mutilation in the UK enables Maureen to appreciate nuance in VAWG issues, as well as provide evidence-based advice and expertise, to organisations and to academia via publication. Maureen is also a strong anti-racist trainer and advocate and is involved in research initiatives that focus on improving equality for all. Her academic qualifications include a BA in Sociology, a Masters in Development Studies and a Masters in Social Work. Her professional qualifications include FGM Training, Counselling and Safeguarding. She is also the Founder and Director of Langa Solutions, an organisation specialising in training, therapeutic intervention and awareness raising around HIV, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Gender-based violence (GBV) and Mental Health in the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe.
Maureen speaks 8 languages from different parts of the world and as a student she used her talent to make money as a court interpreter.
Learn more about Maureen’s recent Publications:
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Congratulations Jen Hirsch (They/she)!
Jen Hirsch, LMSW-Clinical, APHSW-C, a fourth year doctoral student at Michigan State University is receiving the 2025 Society for Social Work and Research Excellence in Research Award Honorable Mention. This award is related to their recent publication about social work licensure and provides the foundation for their roundtable titled At the Intersection of Social Work Research, Practice, and Policy: Academic Advocacy Efforts to Eliminate the Association of Social Work Boards Exams from Professional Licensure Requirements at SSWR 2025 Annual Conference. Learn more about their roundtable here.
Access the publication here:
Learn more about Jen:
Jen (they/she) is a PhD student at Michigan State University. They received their MSW in 2013 from University of New England where they were trained in interprofessional practice. They worked in clinical practice for six years in hospital case management, home-based palliative care, home care, bereavement support, and hospice, including two different hospice houses before pursing a PhD. They have two streams of research. The first focuses on middle to later life adults’ lived experience of chronic and serious illness, the psychosocial dimensions of illness especially related to grief and loss, and the experiences of patients and families in encounters with the healthcare system. Their second focus is on the social work profession from an equity and anti-racist perspective. They are engaged in policy advocacy at the state and federal level around issues related to social work licensure and billing.
Jen’s research interests include medical social work, health policy, and advocacy, psychosocial experience of serious illness and the health care system, and qualitative research methods.
Recent Social Work Doctoral Student Publications
Kim, S. (2024). A conceptual framework for mobile-based cyberbullying-related youth suicide risk screening and intervention. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 1-23. https://doi.org/10.1080/10911359.2024.2318447
Sangmi Kim is a social work doctoral student at University of Tennessee
Mabrouk, F. A., Connaught, G. K., Allen, C. A., & Israel, K. (2024). Implicit Biases and Racial Microaggressions: Examining the Impact on Black Social Work Students’ Well-Being. Social Work in Public Health, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/19371918.2024.2373428
Fatima Mabrouk and Khadija Israel are social work doctoral students at NYU’s Silver School of Social Work, and Chelsea Allen is a doctoral student at Columbia’s School of Social Work.
Boyke, H. (2024). Exploring Immigration Detention at the Intersection of Federal Grant Funding, Sanctuary, and Political Majorities in 2015. Critical Criminology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10612-024-09794-0
Hannah Boyke is a PhD candidate at Michigan State University’s School of Social Work
DSC Call for Nominations: Doctoral Student Achievements
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Submit Nominations for Doctoral Student Achievements!
Celebrate doctoral students’ accomplishments in research, practice, and/or degree milestones!
SSWR DSC Communications Subcommittee has an ongoing call for nominations to showcase social work doctoral student achievements.Nominate a colleague (or yourself) to have their recent accomplishments featured on SSWR DSC social media and in a future DSC newsletter.
The nomination form asks for your name, pronouns, program, a description of the accomplishment(s), information about your research, and brief bio information. If you want, you can also upload a photo of the nominee for us to share and tell us your social media handles to mention in the posts. Student achievements will be posted to social media and the SSWR DSC website as they are received. Achievements will also be featured on the SSWR DSC Newsletter.
View past students showcased for their achievements here.
CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE A COLLEAGUE (OR YOURSELF) TO BE FEATURED
Social Work Snippets
Resources for PhD Students
Research on support in doctoral in programs (Krings et al., 2023)
“Sharing a resource that might be of interest to the DSC and its members. We wrote it with the goal of finding useful and actionable ways to better support doc students” — Amy Krings
Full Citation: Krings, A., Mora, A. S., Bechara, S., Sánchez, C. N., Gutiérrez, L. M., Hawkins, J., & Austic, E. (2023). How Early Social Work Faculty Experienced Support in Their Doctoral Programs. Journal of Social Work Education, 60(2), 206–224. https://doi.org/10.1080/10437797.2023.2279789
Job Opportunities and Funding
National Dissertation Award for Research on Poverty and Economic Mobility 2025–2026
Deadlines: January 24th, 2025
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Research on Social Determinants of Health & Prevention Science— Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work
Deadline: Ongoing
Additional Resources
RESOURCES FOR NEWER CONFERENCE PRESENTERS AND ATTTENDEES
How to Give a Scientific Talk: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-018-07780-5
Video on How to Confidently Present your Research at Conferences: https://asiaedit.com/webinar/how-to-confidently-present-your-research-at-conferences-in-person-and-online
Not following “SWRnet”?
Formerly known as the IASWR Listserv, SWRnet (Social Work Research Network) was launched in October 2009 to continue serving the social work research community by providing regular updates on funding opportunities, calls for papers, conference deadlines and newly published research. SWRnet is administered by the Boston University School of Social Work.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Disclaimer: This newsletter is created as free service by SSWR Doctoral Student Committee Communications Subcommittee members:
Alauna Reckley (She/Her)
Hannah Boyke (They/Them)
Priyanjali Chakraborty (She/Her)
Julisa Tindall (She/Her)
Shawn McNally (He/Him)
Katie Maureen McCoog (She/Her)
Shani Saxon (She/Her)
Saira Afzal (She/Her)
Leah Munroe (She/Her)
Umaira Khan (She/Her)
Nari Yoo (She/Her)
Emily Joan Lamunu (She/Her)
Dwane James (He/Him)
Seon Kyeong (She/Her)
The opinions expressed in this newsletter are the opinions of the individuals listed above alone and do not claim to represent the opinions of SSWR or the SSWR Doctoral Student Committee