Social Welfare Alumni & Friends
Graduates from the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare join a network of more than 9,000 Jayhawk Social Workers.
Explore alumni stories, learn about resources for KU social work alumni, and find out how to give back to the School of Social Welfare.
Alumni Stories
Our alumni make significant contributions toward improving the lives of vulnerable people. Often, their work happens behind the scenes. Read alumni spotlights to find out how Jayhawk Social Workers are changing lives.
Alumni Spotlights
Alumni Spotlight: Chris Beal
“Sitting in on a lot of conferences over the years and getting to know a lot of different people with their struggles,” Beal said. “That's probably where the inspiration came from.”
Alumni Spotlight: Leslie Butsch
Leslie Butsch started her career as a direct social worker. In roles as a case manager and advocate within the foster care system and in a domestic violence shelter, Butsch said she began to see the gaps in the systems her clients interacted with.
Alumni Spotlight: Brandy Williams
Brandy Williams graduated with a Master of Social Work (MSW) with a macro specialization in 2019. Today, she works as the education director for the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA) in Kansas City.
Alumni Spotlight: Ashley Williamson
Ashley Williamson graduated from KU’s Master of Social Work (MSW) with a specialization in social work macro practice program in 2017. Today, she works for an urban agricultural organization called The Giving Grove.
Giving Back
Now more than ever, we need well-trained social workers and social work researchers.
Gifts to the School of Social Welfare with help change social work practice and social policy to support greater dignity, respect and empowerment for the people and communities served by the social work profession.
Resources for Alumni
KU School of Social Welfare alumni have access to continuing education events presented by the School's Center for Community Engagement and Collaboration (CCEC).