University of Cincinnati: School of Social Work

🎉 Congratulations to Dana Harley, Ph.D., MSW, LISW-S, MSW Program Director for the University of Cincinnati School of Social Work, on being recognized as the 2026 National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Social Worker of the Year!

This prestigious honor, presented at the 2026 NASW National Conference in Washington, D.C., recognizes Dr. Harley's outstanding contributions to the social work profession, her unwavering commitment to social justice, and her dedication to educating and mentoring the next generation of social workers.

Through her leadership, scholarship, advocacy, and service, Dr. Harley has made a profound impact on students, colleagues, communities, and the profession as a whole. Her passion for empowering others and advancing equity exemplifies the very best of social work.

Please join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and honoring Dr. Harley's continued commitment to excellence in education, leadership, and service.

University of Cincinnati Ohio UPP Students wear blue to support Child Abuse Prevention month.


Are you interested in child advocacy? Learn more about our UPP program here -
https://www.cahs.uc.edu/academic-programs/undergraduate-programs/social-work/university-partnership-program.html

We are proud to recognize outstanding social work faculty whose dedication to teaching, research, and advocacy continues to shape the future of the profession.

Recent award recipients include:
Dr. Jodi Whitted - NASW Ohio, Region 6- Cincinnati Social Worker of the Year, honoring her excellence in teaching, social policy and welfare, leadership, and professional public service.

Dr. Gary Dick - NASW Ohio, Region 6- Cincinnati Lifetime Achievement Recipient, honoring his decades of contributions to ethics, scholarship, and leadership in social work

Dr. Dana Harley - NASW National Association of Social Workers Social Worker of the year, honoring her contributions to mentoring and academic leadership, and research

These educators exemplify the heart of social work—combining scholarship, compassion, and advocacy to create meaningful change in communities and classrooms alike.

Honored to share that Wayne T. Kinney has been appointed by Governor Mike DeWine to serve on a governor-appointed board or commission. As an Associate Professor–Educator and Program Director for the University of Cincinnati’s Bachelor of Social Work Distance Learning program, Dr. Kinney brings years of experience in social work practice, education, and program leadership to this role. His appointment reflects a strong commitment to public service and advancing policies that support education, workforce development, and community well-being across Ohio.

Last night, several UPP students, along with UPP Campus Coordinator Emily Grace, attended the UC Women’s Basketball game. Go Bearcats!

The University Partnership Program (UPP) provides social work students with opportunities for specialized curriculum and field placements in the child welfare field. Students may earn up to $10,000 in financial incentives through the program.

Learn more about UPP here: https://www.cahs.uc.edu/academic-programs/undergraduate-programs/social-work/university-partnership-program.html

Repost from NASW Ohio, Region 6- Cincinnati Celebrating excellence, dedication, and outstanding contributions to the field of social work. Congratulations to our Social Worker of the Year: Jodi Whitted! 🎉✨