Wayne State celebrates School of Social Work and 90 years of impact

For 90 years, Wayne State University's School of Social Work has been a cornerstone of education, research, and advocacy, and has played a crucial role in training future social workers to serve Detroit and other communities. To celebrate its anniversary and legacy of impact, the School of Social Work hosted "Empowering Change: The Role of Social Work in Advocacy" on March 27 at the Spencer M. Patrich Auditorium. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community leaders came together to celebrate the school's commitment to driving meaningful change.

"The School of Social Work is thrilled to be celebrating 90 years of service to this amazing city," said Dean Sheryl Kubiak. "It is amazing to reflect on all that we have collectively accomplished. This is not just a celebratory event; it is a call to action on so many levels, but mostly to empower change we all want to see in this community and world."

Former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow delivers keynote address.

The event featured a keynote address by former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, who discussed the vital role social workers play in the community.

"For 90 years, Wayne State has supported and trained social workers who are helping people create a better quality of life for themselves, helping people in the community to be empowered to solve problems, and creating a better community," said Stabenow. "Wayne State has an incredible history of improving lives. Here's to 90 more years of producing leaders with the skills, the courage and commitment to make Detroit, our state and our country the best it can be."

Following the keynote, a panel discussion and Q&A explored the pivotal role of social work in shaping policies and fostering community empowerment. Social workers currently serving in public office - including Oakland County Commissioner Charlie Cavell, Michigan State Senator Stephanie Chang, former Detroit City Council President Saunteel Jenkins and Detroit City Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero - shared their experiences transitioning into public office and highlighted how social work values influence governance and policy-making. The discussion provided attendees with valuable tools, knowledge and strategies to become effective advocates for societal transformation.

"Wayne State University is setting students up to make a difference - both in their communities and in their careers," said Elizabeth Crenshaw, a student in the master of social work and public health joint program. "It's not just about what we learn in class; it's about how we're encouraged to apply it in the real world. From day one, we're pushed to think deeper, lead with purpose and get involved in the issues that matter. WSU makes sure we're not just studying change - we're part of it."

At the celebration, Chang presented the School of Social Work with a special tribute signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in recognition of its 90th anniversary and longstanding dedication.

Ranked among the top 50 social work schools in the nation, the school continues to advance innovative solutions through its research centers and academic programs. Since its founding in 1935, the School of Social Work has equipped nearly 15,000 social workers with the skills necessary to advocate for and serve urban communities in Detroit and beyond.

View photos from the School of Social Work 90th Anniversary Celebration

With a current student body of nearly 1,000 students and hundreds of practicum sites, the school's extensive influence is rooted in evidence-based practice and a commitment to policy advocacy. Over its 90-year history, the school has evolved to meet the needs of its students and communities, achieving milestones such as the accreditation of its bachelor of social work program in 1974, the launch of the nation's first dual-title degree program in social work and infant mental health, and the recent expansion of its continuing education offerings to include interactive licensure exam supports.

Through its two research centers - the Center for Social Work Research and the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice - the school drives transformative initiatives that address society's most pressing challenges while advancing social work education and practice. These achievements, coupled with its dedication to progress and leadership, underscore a legacy defined by innovation and advocacy.

"The School of Social Work has been an invaluable resource for many over the years, graduating exceptional students who go on to achieve remarkable things and address the challenges we face daily," said Laurie Lauzon Clabo, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. "This school is not just a resource; it is a beacon of hope for many."

For more information about the Wayne State School of Social Work and its programs, visit socialwork.wayne.edu.