Guest Editor: Julisa Tindall

In this newsletter, we discuss topics related to elections, advocacy, networking, and communicating with colleagues.

This issue includes

Editorial: Engaging with Change: Social Work, Elections, and the Fall Semester by Julisa Tindall (She/her)
The Art of Academic Networking: An International PhD Student's Perspective by Nari Yoo (She/her)
Your position is the other side: Disagreements among social workers by Shawn McNally (He/Him)
Re-post: Beyond the Classroom: Being a Social Work PhD Student in an Election Year by Julisa Tindall (She/her)
Trans Rights & Erasure in Social Work Education (Original Text and Updated Forward) Original text by Isaac Akapnitis (original text) (they/them) and Hannah Boyke (Updated forward) (they/them)
SSWR 2025 Updates: Tell us about your presentations at SSWR and Coffee with a Scholar registration information!
Doctoral Student Spotlights

***Editorial: Engaging with Change: Social Work, Elections, and the Fall Semester***

Julisa Tindall (She/her)

The issues we study—such as equity, justice, and the well-being of vulnerable populations—are at the forefront of national discourse, and our roles as scholars and advocates take on increased significance.

As the fall semester unfolds, many of us find ourselves balancing coursework, research, teaching, and, for some, the complexities of navigating the U.S. election season. The intersection between academia and politics is ever-present, but this overlap becomes especially salient for social work doctoral students during election years. The issues we study—such as equity, justice, and the well-being of vulnerable populations—are at the forefront of national discourse, and our roles as scholars and advocates take on increased significance.

This issue of the SSWR Doctoral Student Committee Newsletter focuses on timely topics that are crucial to our development as students and future social work professionals. Our theme, centering on elections, politics, and the fall semester, encourages us to reflect on the political dimensions of our work and consider how we can use our academic positions to advocate for social change both in and outside the classroom.

In this edition, you will find articles addressing a wide range of topics that reflect our current realities. From academic networking as an international student to self-care strategies related to time changes, this issue brings attention to how we manage both personal and professional challenges during this busy time of year. We also explore themes of inclusivity in social work and the balancing act of navigating academia as a parent, offering relatable insights for many in our field. Furthermore, there will be a reflection on the complexity of perspectives and discourse, a critical consideration during this politically charged season. Additionally, you’ll find a repost of the article “Beyond the Classroom: Being a Social Work PhD Student in an Election Year,” reflecting on our responsibilities during election cycles.

In this edition, you will find articles that reflect the diverse experiences of social work doctoral students as we navigate this pivotal time. The Art of Academic Networking: An International PhD Student's Perspective discusses the nuances of building professional networks as an international student, offering insights that are applicable to all of us as we seek to build connections in the field. Your Position is the Other Side: Disagreements Among Colleagues explores the complexities of differing opinions within the social work profession and offers strategies for engaging in respectful discourse—a particularly relevant topic during election season. Finally, we have two re-posts. The first is Beyond the Classroom: Being a Social Work PhD Student in an Election Year, which reflects on the unique responsibilities we carry as both scholars and advocates in an election year. The second is Trans Rights & Erasure in Social Work Education, written by Isaac Akapnitis with an afterward by Hannah Boyke.

As social work doctoral students, we are often asked to consider the broader implications of our research and practice. This fall, let us remain mindful of how the political landscape shapes the systems we seek to improve. Whether through voting, community organizing, or scholarly advocacy, we have the power to influence change. Let’s continue to leverage our voices to push for a more just and equitable society.

Thank you for being part of this community! I hope this issue inspires you to reflect, engage, and take action as we navigate this busy and pivotal time of year.

***The Art of Academic Networking: An International PhD Student's Perspective***

Nari Yoo (She/her)

When I first started my PhD journey in social work, I was struck by how different networking felt in American academia compared to what I was used to.

One theory kept coming up in conversations: "The Strength of Weak Ties" by Mark Granovetter. As I've navigated the world of SSWR (Society for Social Work and Research) and CSWE (Council on Social Work Education) conferences, I've seen this theory come to life in our field's professional networks. The beauty of social work academia lies in its interconnected nature - we're a field that inherently values relationships, community building, and collaborative approaches to solving complex social problems. This makes networking not just a career necessity, but a natural extension of our professional values and ethics.

Beyond the Coffee Break Conversations

Let's talk about conferences. Yes, they're overwhelming. Yes, they're exhausting. But they're also where some of the most interesting connections happen in our field. The key isn't to meet everyone at SSWR or CSWE – it's about finding your academic tribe. Those moments between sessions, when you're discussing the latest research on community interventions or debating methodological approaches, that's where real connections begin. Both conferences offer structured networking opportunities specifically designed for doctoral students. The doctoral student sessions, mentoring programs, and special interest group meetings are where lasting connections often begin. They're chances to find potential collaborators, mentors, and peers who understand your research journey. But here's what I've learned: conferences aren't the only way.

Digitalization of Academic Networking

Social media, particularly Academic Twitter (or X), has become a space for social work scholars. It's where conversations about social justice, research methods, and community engagement happen in real-time (e.g., #SWTech community). I've seen countless collaborations start from a simple tweet about a working paper or a response to a call for research partners. While Academic Twitter (now X) was once the primary platform, many scholars are migrating to LinkedIn. You can follow key scholars in your research area and engage with their posts. But here's a pro tip that changed my game: webinars and virtual seminars. Sometimes, it offers a much better chance of making meaningful connections because when you're one of ten people in a Zoom meeting room, people could remember you. I have asked questions and sent follow-up emails to the scholars I wanted to be connected to express my interest in collaboration. You can start with genuine appreciation for their work (we all know when it's fake), share your own research interests, and be specific about why you're reaching out.

Your Digital Identity Matters

Here's something I wish someone had told me earlier: in today's academic world, your personal website could be as important as your CV. It's your academic home on the internet, where colleagues, potential collaborators, and future employers can learn about your work. You can also write a blog about your research experiences, share methodological insights, talk about what drives your work in social work.

A Final Thought

As international students in social work, we bring unique perspectives to American academia. Our diverse backgrounds and experiences enrich the field and offer new ways of understanding social issues. Don't see your international status as a barrier to networking – view it as an asset that makes your voice unique and valuable in academic conversations. Remember, everyone in academia started somewhere. Even the most accomplished scholars in our field were once nervous students wondering how to make connections. Be genuine, be interested, and most importantly, be yourself. The relationships will follow. Your journey in social work academia is unique, but you're not walking it alone. Each email you send, each webinar you attend, each tweet you share is a step toward building your academic community.

***Your position is the other side: Disagreements among social workers***

Shawn McNally (He/Him)

It can be easy to forget that not every social worker feels the same way about everything.

In wanting to write something relevant to the overarching topic of this newsletter, I figured it’d be interesting to discuss differing opinions. I mean, that’s kind of what elections are all about, right? However, I wasn’t interested in the differences between the two parties. Rather, I was more interested in the differences between social workers. After all, it can be easy to forget that not every social worker feels the same way about everything. Ultimately, I was inspired to write this based on my own experiences as a student, professional, instructor, and researcher. I’ll quickly discuss these experiences, then provide some thoughts to consider if you ever find yourself disagreeing with a fellow social worker.

Before doing anything, however, there’s a few things I’d like to make very clear. First, many issues are not black and white. While it can be easy to label someone this or that, many people’s opinions, values, and beliefs are much more complex than that. Second, not all opinions are equal. That may sound cruel, but it’s simply the truth. I’d argue that “bothsidesism” has massively contributed to the division we see today. Third, and related to the first and second points; no, a person cannot just say whatever they want without potential consequences. Fourth, I do believe in being as civil as possible. Note the “as possible.” Fifth, I’m specifically talking about disagreements between social workers (e.g., students, professionals, faculty, etc.). Sixth, I have no problem admitting that I lean pretty far to the left (big shocker, eh?). Finally, it is probably important to note that what’s written here comes from the perspective of a white, heterosexual, cisgender male. While I try to stress and discuss this in a variety of ways throughout this piece (see point #4 above; see below), I do want to explicitly acknowledge that I do recognize that disagreements among individuals similar in identity and power are likely to be fundamentally different than disagreements among those dissimilar in identity and power. Now, let’s continue, shall we?

Do all social workers agree politically?

It’s no secret that most social workers tend to lean a certain way. I’ll be honest, I’ve always been curious about whether social workers can even remotely lean the other way. Of course, disagreement doesn’t necessarily mean one leans one way while the other one leans the other way. In my undergraduate policy course, I can recall multiple class members arguing about universal healthcare. One classmate, whose spouse was from a South American country, argued against the idea based on their spouse’s experience. Being the only student among my cohort who lived in another country, I shared what I could about the Canadian system. Something similar happened when I was an MSW student. North Dakota has among the highest rates of gun ownership in the country due to the number of hunters in the state. For this reason, many within my cohort had differing opinions about gun-related legislation. As a professional, particularly in a rural area, I remember colleagues sharing their experiences in reconciling their religious beliefs with the NASW Code of Ethics. Finally, since being a PhD student, I’ve heard stories of instructors elsewhere in the country explicitly stating that social workers can’t be conservative (who knows if this is true), I’ve observed students disagreeing politically, and I’ve even become aware of disagreements among faculty. Most interestingly, I’ve even heard stories of BSW and MSW students being afraid to add to the classroom discourse due to some of their beliefs. I actually somewhat got to know one of these students, who admitted to having some differing viewpoints, but wanted to help others all the same.

So, what do we do when we disagree?

While it is rare for social workers to significantly disagree, it does happen. Here are some things to consider if you find yourself disagreeing with a fellow social worker:

Listen attentively/Ask clarifying questions - Much like we would do with our clients, we should at least try to understand their perspective. It is possible that there’s a misunderstanding, or we may even agree with a portion of their argument.

Focus on the issue - Ad-hominem attacks are rarely, if ever, effective in convincing someone to alter their thinking on a particular issue. Generally, we should try to separate the person from the issue. After all, we may know nothing else about the person.

Don’t put people in a box - Remember point #1 from above? Try to avoid making generalizations. It’s very probable that this person is much more complex than their opinion on a particular issue might indicate. Perhaps you even agree on most other things. I once foolishly acted snarky in discussing guns with another individual, putting them in a box. Turns out, we were both very passionate about eradicating poverty.

Be respectful - Try not to interrupt the other person in any fashion. Additionally, do not escalate the argument. If you find that the other person is escalating the argument, there’s likely no reason to behave in the same way. Try to de-escalate if you can. How you ultimately respond can vary, but it is perfectly reasonable to acknowledge that you won’t debate someone who cannot do so respectfully. They might declare themselves the “winner,” but they were probably going to do that anyway.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “I thought you said that not all opinions are equal? Why should I do any of these things? Isn’t that ‘bothsidesism’?” First of all, “bothsidesism” is specifically media-related. Second of all, I’d still argue that, in most cases, we should probably at least consider responding as I’ve laid out above. I simply just wanted to state that not all opinions are equal, which I believe to be true. If any portion of their argument belittles or harms - or has the potential to harm - entire groups of people, a more intuitive response might be appropriate (well, it’s fine to belittle white supremacy, but why would one disagree with that?). Remember, I’m talking about disagreements with fellow social workers here. It seems very unlikely that a reasonable discussion cannot be had. I hope for that to be the case, anyway.

Final Thoughts

Yep, not all social workers agree with one another. Remember the student I mentioned earlier that I somewhat got to know? I think they became comfortable sharing some of their thoughts because I didn’t attack or force my beliefs upon them. Personally, none of the things this student shared sounded like something they should be afraid to express. This student eventually admitted to needing to learn more about some specific issues (their words), and even asked how they could go about doing this. I then surmised that they were quite possibly afraid of being ridiculed for being viewed as being less informed than their peers. Anyway, I directed them the best I could, once again trying not to impose my own beliefs upon them. It is possible that we may not understand something as well as we think we do. Being attacked for it probably makes things worse. Now, I’m not defending the whole “just asking questions” shtick, but be certain that’s what you’re seeing.

To close, I do realize that social workers tend to be passionate by nature, and that that passion can manifest in many ways. I do tend to believe, however, that when it comes to disagreements with our colleagues, said passion should typically be expressed in a respectful manner. Indeed, respecting our colleagues is among the Ethical Standards in the NASW Code of Ethics. We should do our best to maintain this standard and encourage our colleagues to do the same. In many cases, social workers shouldn’t be afraid to express their views (within reason, of course). Certainly, they shouldn’t be attacked for simply knowing less about something.

In the wise words of progressive metallers Fates Warning:

Caught up in our convictions, we forget.
How our senses distort things we see.
We can't accept our differences.
But we can always disagree

***Re-post: Beyond the Classroom: Being a Social Work PhD Student in an Election Year***

Julisa Tindall (She/her)

As social work doctoral students, we stand at the intersection of academia, advocacy, and social justice.

Our work often challenges structural inequalities, amplifies historically marginalized voices, and pushes for systemic change. In an election year, these responsibilities take on an even greater significance. As both scholars and practitioners, we have a unique role in understanding the sociopolitical landscape and actively participating in shaping it.

The Role of Social Workers in an Election Year

Social workers have a long history of advocating for policies that promote social justice, equity, and the well-being of all communities. In an election year, our advocacy extends beyond our research and into the voting booth. We become tasked with educating ourselves and our communities about the policies, candidates, and issues that will directly impact the populations we serve. Moreover, we must recognize our power as informed voters to influence the direction of these policies.

As PhD students, our role is twofold. First, we are researchers, generating knowledge that can inform policy and practice. Our research often highlights the needs of vulnerable populations and can be a powerful tool in advocating for change. We are responsible for ensuring that our research is rigorous and accessible to those who can use it to advocate for policy changes. Second, we are educators and mentors within our communities and academic institutions. We have the opportunity to encourage our peers, students, and the broader community.. Social workers are able to engage in the electoral process through several avenues, including voting, campaigning, voter registration drives, and public education on key issues, facilitating discussions on the implications of various policies, and using our research to inform public debate.

Furthermore, balancing social work practice and politics requires a careful approach, especially in therapeutic settings. As social workers, we must create a safe space where clients can express their views without judgment while adhering to our ethical commitment to social justice. This means fostering discussions that empower clients through civic engagement without imposing specific political ideologies, making sure that our practice remains supportive and ethically grounded during an election year.

By leveraging our knowledge and skills and taking an active role in the electoral process, we can help ensure that the voices of those we serve are heard. It is imperative that historically marginalized communities, where voter suppression and disengagement are often more prevalent, are represented. Our expertise in social work allows us to bridge gaps, providing education and resources to empower these communities.

Why It’s Important to Vote

Voting is one of the most direct ways to influence the policies that affect the lives of the people we work with as social workers. Elections determine who makes decisions about healthcare, education, social services, and justice—areas where social workers are deeply involved. By voting, we contribute to selecting leaders who will shape these critical areas.

The stakes in this election are particularly high, with significant implications for civil rights, public health, social safety net, and much more. Social work doctoral students have a unique perspective, as our research often highlights the vulnerabilities and challenges faced by the communities we study. This firsthand knowledge underscores the importance of voting for candidates and policies that support equitable access to resources and justice. Moreover, the outcomes of this election will set the tone for policy development over the next several years, impacting the very frameworks within which we work and conduct research. As such, it is crucial that we not only vote ourselves but also advocate for the importance of civic engagement within our circles of influence.

Furthermore, as social work doctoral students, we understand the importance of representation. Many of the issues we study and work on—such as health disparities, economic inequality, and racial justice—are profoundly impacted by election outcomes. Voting is a way to ensure that the leaders elected are those who understand and are committed to addressing these issues.

The Power of Collective Action

In addition to voting, we can mobilize others in our communities to do the same. Social workers are often leaders in community organizing, and this election year provides a prime opportunity to harness this power. Whether it’s through hosting informational sessions, engaging in dialogues about the importance of voting, or helping to organize transportation to the polls, our efforts can help increase voter turnout and ensure that all voices are heard.

Collective action amplifies our impact. When we come together as social work doctoral students, we bring a wealth of knowledge, resources, and strategies that can significantly influence voter engagement. We can collaborate across institutions, share best practices for voter mobilization, and leverage our networks to reach a wider audience. This collaborative effort can increase voter turnout and strengthen our community’s commitment to social justice. By engaging in collective action, we demonstrate the power of solidarity and show how coordinated efforts can lead to meaningful change. In an election year, the decisions made at the polls have far-reaching consequences for the populations we serve. By engaging in the electoral process, we fulfill our ethical obligation to advocate for policies that align with the core values of social work: service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence.

Conclusion

Being a social work doctoral student in an election year is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is an opportunity to engage deeply with the issues that matter most to our profession and to use our voices—and our votes—to advocate for change. As we continue our journey in academia and practice, we must remember that our role extends beyond the classroom and research. We are part of a larger movement for social justice, and in this election year, our actions can help shape the future of this movement. Let us vote, advocate, and lead by example, ensuring that our commitment to social justice is reflected not just in our work but in the policies that govern our society.

***Trans Rights & Erasure in Social Work Education (Original Text and Updated Forward)***

Original text by Isaac Akapnitis, LMSW, Doctoral Student (they/them); Forward by Hannah Boyke (they/them)

Foreward

“When we argue for SOGI[E] [sexual orientation, gender identity and expression] rights, we are not merely challenging the homophobic attitudes, practices, and policies of individuals and institutions but rather challenging a whole social system” (Rahman, 2019)

In 2020, for the first time the Supreme Court recognized that queer and trans people are protected against discrimination in the workplace, citing the prohibition on sex-based discrimination in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (Bostock v. Clayton County, 2020). In April 2024, guided by the Bostock decision, the Biden administration attempted to expand these protections into education, prohibiting educational institutions that receive federal funding from discriminating based on gender identity and sexual orientation. However, this rule was never implemented; instead, it became subject to a lawsuit (Department of Education v. Louisiana, 2024). The Supreme Court issued its ruling in August 2024 and ultimately prohibited the rule from being implemented, permitting queer and trans discrimination in educational institutions.

Honestly, I wasn’t shocked at the 2024 decision. I was more shocked at the Bostock decision (and not just because of the composition of the Court that decided it). Queer and trans “rights” have long been regarded as unnecessary by the government.

***

What exactly is a right?

When I give lectures about the criminal legal system (both alone and when discussing its intersections with immigration enforcement), I like to first discuss the difference between rights and privileges.

Rights: When a claim or protection applies to all people regardless of their behavior or characteristics, it is a right. When something is a right, it cannot be restricted arbitrarily regardless of the “justification”.
Privileges: When a claim or protection applies to people only in some circumstances, it is a privilege—not a right. Typically, privileges can be restricted to groups of people based on justifications or characteristics.

Here’s an example:

The Supreme Court found that police aren’t violating the fourth amendment by conducting pre-text stops to search for drugs if the individual that they are unconstitutionally searching has such substances on them even if the initial stop is not related to drug possession.

To put it more clearly, we can cite the words of Justice Stevens himself:

“A dog sniff conducted during a concededly lawful traffic stop that reveals no information other than the location of a substance that no individual has any right to possess does not violate the Fourth Amendment”

When the Supreme Court finds that police aren’t violating the fourth amendment by engaging in this conduct just because the individual is “committing a crime”, our fourth amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures isn’t a right anymore. It’s a privilege, and as such, the government can take it away whenever it feels like it. Please keep in mind that this one Court case is just the tip of the iceberg of super great decisions! /s (please read sarcastically)

***

The “rights” of BIPOC, queer and trans people, disabled people, and migrants have largely always been privileges, taken away whenever those in power need to legitimate and/or preserve their ability to carry out acts of violence, oppression, and dehumanization. As people debate on the legitimacy of my existence and Personhood, I’m confronted with the tenuousness of my rights and the rights of so many others who don’t access the power associated with my whiteness or citizenship status.

At the end of the day, to me, if we don’t have the right to not just live without discrimination, harassment, or violence (both from other people and from the government) but also to exist as ourselves in this world, what do we have? When governments criminalize (or attempt to criminalize) access to gender affirming care, for example, they are criminalizing trans people’s existence—negating our right to be alive as ourselves and requiring conformity to arbitrary, cissexist definitions of gender just to access basic—and potentially lifesaving—care. When governments allow businesses to assert their “first amendment” rights and deny service to queer and trans people, they are telling us clearly that our rights don’t matter.

It is more than just a person expressing a transphobic/homophobic viewpoint. It’s more than just the actions of one administration. Importantly, though, this doesn’t mean that any effort at change or hope is futile, but it does mean that working towards the solution requires more than just raising awareness, “practicing mindfulness,” condemning an institution’s actions/policies, or putting out a shiny new statement about inclusivity. It also means that work needs to be done even in times that seem “safer”, especially when that safety is primarily felt by non-queer and non-trans people.

***

The Welder by Cherrie Moraga (1983)

(The poem was formatted into 2 columns to save space. Please read column 1 then read column 2)

Cherrie Moraga is a Chicana Lesbian Feminist author, scholar, poet, and activist, and playwriter. She works as a professor at the University of California at Santa Barbara

Moraga, C. (1983). The Welder, In C. Moraga & G. Anzaldua (Eds.) This bridge called my back: Writings by radical women of color. Kitchen Table Press.

Trans Rights & Erasure in Social Work Education

This piece was originally published in the July 2022 edition of the Monthly Monitor available here.

Throughout 2022, state lawmakers introduced more than 300 anti-LGBTQ bills throughout the U.S. A majority of these bills targeted transgender and non-binary (“trans”) youth in attempt to prohibit their access to safe educational environments, supportive K-12 sports teams, or gender-affirming health care (Freedom for All Americans, 2022; Human Rights Campaign, 2022). For example, despite trans-inclusive protections under Title IX, the so-called “Save Women’s Sports Act '' prevents trans girls from playing on K-12 sports teams that align with their gender. Bans in health care prevent trans youth from accessing critical resources that support their gender transition. These bills are rooted in cissexism and transphobia and the harmful ideology that trans girls/women have an unfair disadvantage in sports, trans youth are too young to know who they are, and the public needs to be protected from trans people who are simply co-existing in community spaces.

Given the vitriol embedded in debates surrounding this legislation, even when the bills fail, the pain and fear they cause is felt viscerally throughout trans communities. This hurt has been compounded by the silence and inaction among social work research and education institutions and accreditation bodies. It is time to speak out against these policies and take action to support trans social work students, staff, faculty, and our communities.

With the exception of a few brief, formal statements in support of trans youth, our social work programs and institutions have been largely silent about these harmful policies. My own program director and key faculty members supported me and a fellow doctoral student in circulating an open letter and call to action we wrote to our social work community. We appreciate this support, but many of us continue to face academic and political roadblocks and potential backlash as the burden is placed upon individuals to call for meaningful change. In their statements, CSWE, at least one social work program, and the NASW condemned legislative attacks against trans youth, primarily focusing on Texas and Florida. This is an important step, and these voices must be present in advocacy for trans youth. However, these same entities failed to draw sufficient attention to the 12 anti-trans bills proposed by the Arizona legislature this year, or the passing of Senate Bills 1138 and 1165. This is concerning with the upcoming 2023 SSWR Annual Conference that will be held in Phoenix, Arizona.

In April, SSWR released a statement about the 2023 Conference that was both welcomed and largely disappointing. The SSWR Board explained that the decision to host the conference in Arizona was made in 2019. They also acknowledged that the legislation was “antithetical to the beliefs, principles, and values central to our profession.” But they described in generalities holding their position against “any” actions that promote bigotry or divisiveness, made vague mention of ensuring “inclusive participation,” and excluded discussion of the anti-trans legislation that spurred this statement. This omission felt like yet another painful erasure of the current and ongoing reality faced by trans communities, and was a missed opportunity to meaningfully engage the membership around these issues.

After SCOTUS overturned Roe v. Wade and Justice Thomas alluded to taking aim at additional LGBTQ+ rights in June 2022, SSWR released a second statement. SSWR included attacks against racial justice, immigration rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and reproductive freedom within Arizona as cause for concern -- all critical areas for consideration. However, discussion of specific anti-trans legislation was yet again omitted. This may seem like a matter of semantics, but rights, awareness, and support for trans community lags far behind that of cisgender (non-trans) LGBQ populations. Additionally, as noted by a fellow doctoral student, SSWR engaged in additional trans erasure in their second action step to offer a partially hybrid conference: “...members whose ethical objections to attending in person and women [emphasis added] who may have health considerations in the face of abortion restrictions can choose to attend at least some parts of the conference virtually.” In addition to cisgender women, abortion access can impact trans men, non-binary people, intersex individuals, and Two Spirit people. A simple place to start showing support is by using gender-inclusive language when discussing reproductive rights.

The isolation, silence, stigma, and regular witnessing of state lawmakers debating our right to maintain bodily autonomy or access public spaces has significant deleterious impacts on mental health (Trevor Project, 2022; Tebbe et al., 2021; Turban et al., 2021). We must view institutional and interpersonal violence against trans communities as interconnected, intersectional rights violations. After all, how many of us are going through the motions, while moving through one sociopolitical crisis to the next? Whether it is anti-racist violence, police brutality, COVID-related losses, and most recently, concerns about reproductive health and threats to further undoing of LGBTQ+ rights, we are expected to remain engaged in our doctoral studies and research as if these events are not happening around us.

Some scholars have understandably called for a boycott of the 2023 Conference, while some have even committed to donating the money they would have spent on travel to trans-led organizations. As a trans, queer doctoral student in Arizona, I am conflicted about my own participation next year. Having started my PhD program during the pandemic, this would be my first opportunity to attend an academic conference in person. These conferences are considered imperative to our growth and development as scholars, but so too must we learn to navigate and live in our values. It’s also important to recognize that not every doctoral student has the privilege to make these decisions.

Whether you choose to come to Phoenix, participate from home, or boycott the 2023 Conference altogether, how might we make the most of this opportunity to organize against legislative attempts to undermine trans rights and other attacks on our bodies? We encourage you to utilize SSWR’s feedback form to ask questions and provide recommendations for specific actions, including the allocation of resources to scholars, students, and community members directly impacted by these issues.

If you’d like to become more active in supporting trans communities within social work, and you’re not sure where to begin, I encourage you to watch the Anti-Trans Policies & Social Work Education: A National Town Hall. Find out more about the Town Hall here, and watch the recording here.

References

Freedom for All Americans. (2022). Legislative Tracker. https://freedomforallamericans.org/legislative-tracker Human Rights Campaign [HRC]. (2022). Anti-LGBTQ+ Bills in 2022. https://www.hrc.org/campaigns/the-state-legislative-attack-on-lgbtq-people#state-legislative-tracker-map Tebbe, E. A., Simone, M., Wilson, E., & Hunsicker, M. (2021). A dangerous visibility: Moderating effects of anti-trans legislative efforts on trans and gender-diverse mental health. Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity. Advance online publication. https://doi-org.ezproxy1.lib.asu.edu/10.1037/sgd0000481 Trevor Project. (2022). 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2022 Turban, J. L., Kraschel, K. L., & Cohen, I. G. (2021). Legislation to criminalize gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth. JAMA, 325(22), 2251-2252. https://doi:10.1001/jama.2021.7764

Doctoral Students, submit information about your presentation(s) at SSWR 2025 to be displayed in the January 2025 DSC Newsletter!

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Social Work Doctoral Student Accomplishments

Image depicts BBRIDGE co-founders sitting on a grey couch on a stage with the host Daytime Buffalo Channel 4 News. They sit in front of a screen with the words “Daytime Buffalo”. From left to right: Chelsea Lovell (Host of Daytime Buffalo- WIVB-Nextstar.tv), Vanity Jones (Ph.D. Social welfare 2nd year), Joyce Jekayinoluwa (Ph.D. Global and Sexuality Studies 2nd year), Jennifer Elliott (Ph.D. Social welfare 3rd year) and Ogechi Christine Kalu (Ph.D. student Social Welfare 3rd year)

Congratulations Ogechi Kalu (She/her)

Ogechi Kalu, Jennifer Elliott, Vanity Jones (Students in Social Welfare), and Joyce Jekayinoluwa (PhD student in Global Gender Studies) were recently featured on WIVB Daytime Buffalo News Channel 4 to highlight their impactful research on intimate partner violence and its effects on the Black community. Additionally, on August 16th, 2024, they launched a research-based podcast titled BBRIDGE—Building Black Relationships by Initiating Development, Growth, and Empowerment. The podcast aims to bridge research, practice, and community engagement and is available on various streaming platforms. Learn more about Ogechi, Jennifer Elliott, and Vanity Jones. Learn more about Joyce Jekayinoluwa here.

ACCESS THE COVERAGE AND THE PODCAST

The BBRIDGE podcast is available on Spotify, YouTube , and Apple Access the News feature here

ABOUT OGECHI

Ogechi is a third year doctoral student State University of New York at Buffalo. Ogechi’s research interests include intimate Partner violence and impact on children, teen-dating and healthy relationships, cultural responsiveness, trauma-informed interventions and policy advocacy

Image depicts Jeesoo Jeon, a Korean woman smiling at the camera. Jeesoo wears a blue button down shirt and stands in front of a mauve background.

Congratulations Jeesoo Jeon (She/her)

Jeesoo received The Richard A. Zdanis Research Scholarship Award ($5,000) from the School of Graduate Studies at Case Western Reserve University for her dissertation proposal in recognition of Research Creativity and Contribution to Academia. Jeesoo is a 6th year doctoral candidate at Case Western Reserve University.

ABOUT JEESOO

“My long-term research agenda has two areas of focus: 1) investigating the role of social networks in preventing child maltreatment and promoting flourishing, (2) identifying how social resources may be impacted by structural resources such as economic and neighborhood conditions, and (3) improving community-based interventions and policies that aim to enhance the protective factors of families. My training in realist evaluation methods will underlie my continued research to rigorously evaluate mechanisms and contexts for programs to refine the community-based program for parents and families. My methodological skills encompass quantitative and qualitative research methods”

View Jeesoo’s Case Western Reserve University here, and view her list of publications on Google Scholar here.

JEESOO’S RESEARCH INTERESTS

Child maltreatment, Flourishing, Social Support, Housing instability

Recent Social Work Doctoral Student Publications

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***

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

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

National Poverty Fellows Program Call For Applications

Deadline: 12/2/2024

Call for Submissions

International Interdisciplinary Conference on Clinical Supervision

Proposal Deadline: November 30th, 2024 and Final Submission January 31st 2025.

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

Newsletter

Monthly Monitor: October/November