Whitney M. Young, Jr. School of Social Work

John Saunders McNeil, PhD, MSSW, an Atlanta University alumni was celebrated last evening at the NASW National Conference as a Social Work Pioneer.

Thank you, Dr. Cynthia Franklin (a faculty member and his mentee from the University of Texas at Austin) for nominating him and accepting the award on his family's behalf.

For More information about Dr. McNeil and the Social Work Pioneer recognition visit: https://www.naswfoundation.org/Our-Work/NASW-Social-Workers-Pioneers/NASW-Social-Workers-Pioneers-Listing.aspx?id=1003

We are excited to share that 4 co-authors of "Healing Centered Leadership and Anti-Racist Social Work Practice Across Systems" are Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work alumni! Congratulations Denise McLane-Davison, PhD, AM, Nubian OmiSayade Sun, Ph.D., LCSW-BACS, Veronica C. Huggins, Ph.D., LSW, and Dr. Kiana Battle, LMSW

Healing Centered Leadership and Anti-Racist Social Work Practice Across Systems addresses the intersection of healing-centered approaches and anti-racist practice within a range of systems including social work, education, healthcare, community services, government, and the for-profit sector. The text explores how leaders and practitioners can create environments that promote justice, equity, and the well-being of individuals and communities. It brings together scholarship and lived experiences to offer practical guidance for those committed to systemic change.

The book is organized into eleven chapters, by 16 authors that balance theory, reflection, and actionable strategies. Topics include the foundations of healing-centered leadership, self-care as a radical practice, historical and contemporary issues in anti-racist leadership, strategies for equitable outcomes in education, approaches for rural and reentry contexts, trauma-informed care, partnership-building and advocacy, and trends in anti-racist practice for education and policy. Throughout, readers will find case studies, theoretical frameworks, tools, and prompts for personal and organizational development.

Healing Centered Leadership and Anti-Racist Social Work Practice Across Systems is part of the Cognella Series on the Foundations of Anti-Racist Social Work, a collection of textbooks that recognize racism as a complex and ongoing societal issues and offer readers anti-racist frameworks to apply to social work practice.

Class of 2010
Dr. Denise McLane-Davidson, AM, Full-Professor, Toronto Metropolitan University

Class of 2015
Dr. Nubian Sun, LCSW-BACS, Clinical Associate Professor of Social Work, Tulane University

Dr. Veronica Huggins, LMSW, Associate Teaching Professor, University of Southern Indiana

Dr. Kiana Battle, LMSW, K Battle Consulting, LLC

The Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work was honored to welcome back alumni from the Classes of 1990 and 1991 for a special visit filled with fellowship, legacy, and generosity. During their time on campus last Friday, our distinguished alumni connected with faculty, shared memories of their matriculation, and made a meaningful donation in support of the continued growth and excellence of the school.

Their visit also coincided with student orientation, creating a powerful full-circle moment as incoming students had the opportunity to meet those who once walked the same halls decades ago. The energy in the room was inspiring as our newest scholars expressed excitement and eagerness to begin their journey at WMYJSSW. Thank you to our alumni for continuing to pour back into the next generation of social work leaders.

Rooted in New Orleans and representing Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Enchante' Franklin and Ijohli Jack proudly participated in the Forensic Social Work Conference in the city that shaped their foundation. This experience fostered meaningful connections, professional development, and transformative learning that will extend into their research and service.

"We are honored to carry these experiences forward as we continue contributing to the advancement of forensic social work."

The Office of Practice Education proudly invites you to explore The Practicum Post – Spring 2026 Newsletter!

This edition highlights the impactful work, partnerships, student experiences, and community engagement initiatives that continue to shape the practicum experience at the Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work. From meaningful field placements to special events and program updates, discover how our students, faculty, and partners are making a difference locally and globally.

Take a look and celebrate the continued excellence and innovation within the Office of Practice Education!

Online Flipbook Created with the Heyzine flipbook maker

Congratulations to the graduates of the Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work Class of 2026!

On Monday, our scholars proudly crossed the stage, celebrating years of hard work, sacrifice, perseverance, and purpose. Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, staff and supporters, our graduates stepped confidently into the next chapter of their journeys as social workers, advocates, leaders, and changemakers.

WMYJSSW is proud to have played a role in shaping professionals committed to serving communities and advancing social justice locally, nationally, and globally.

This past Saturday, the Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work celebrated its 31st Annual Hooding Ceremony — a moment filled with pride, purpose, reflection, and accomplishment.

As each graduate crossed the stage, we were reminded that behind every hood is a story of perseverance, sacrifice, resilience, and commitment to serving others. These scholars are not only earning degrees; they are stepping into a profession dedicated to advocacy, healing, leadership, and transformative change.

To our graduates: thank you for answering the call to serve communities with compassion and courage. Your journey has prepared you to become the voices, changemakers, and leaders our world needs.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026. Your impact is just beginning, and WMYJSSW will forever be proud of you.

For all of the WMYJSSW Hooding photos, visit this link: https://curtismcdowell.smugmug.com/School-of-Social-Work-Hooding-2026

Can’t attend the WMYJSSW Hooding Ceremony in person? We invite you to still be part of this special celebration from wherever you are.

Please share the livestream link with family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones who would like to support and celebrate our graduates as they reach this incredible milestone. This moment represents years of hard work, perseverance, purpose, and dedication to the field of social work.

Join us as we honor the next generation of leaders, advocates, and changemakers from the Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work.

https://tinyurl.com/WMYJSSWhooding2026

Clark Atlanta University Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work Master’s Hooding Ceremony 2026 The Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work Master’s Hooding Ceremony takes place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., honoring graduates committed t...

The countdown is on!

This Saturday, the Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work proudly celebrates its 31st Annual Hooding Ceremony—a milestone honoring the dedication, resilience, and accomplishments of our graduating scholars.

As our scholars prepare to cross this important threshold, we celebrate not only their academic achievements, but also their commitment to service, advocacy, leadership, and transformative impact in communities around the world.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Your journey is a testament to purpose, perseverance, and the power of social work.