Fraiser Hall with rainbow behind

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.

Share Your Alumni News

Recently changed jobs, got a big promotion or moved? Share your news and update your contact info with 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.
MSW Macro Alumni Spotlight Q&A with Ashley Williamson

Alumni Spotlights

Three graduates of the Integrated Health Scholars Program

Alumni Stories: Integrated Health

Nearly 250 graduates of the Integrated Health Scholars program are now providing integrated health care to under-served communities in Kansas and western Missouri. Hear from recent graduates of the program.
Cynthia Schendel with her two young children at her KU MSW graduation

Alumna focuses social work career on giving voice to the voiceless

Cynthia Schendel, MSW 1983, spent her career as a clinical social worker, opening the doors of her practice to young people, families and adults. She established the Cynthia A. Schendel Scholarship in Clinical Social Work in 2020.
Mel McDaniel holds her dog in a yard

BSW alum starts nonprofit to support youth

Mel McDaniel combined her BSW education and work as an interior designer to found Marvin's Home, a nonprofit organization that furnishes homes for youths who have aged out of the foster care system.
John Sergent, right, with his partner

Graduate turns early challenges into successful social work career

John Sergent earned a BSW from KU in 1996 and an MSW in 2003. During his career, Sergent has been a program manager and a medical social worker. He overcame early challenges on the way to a successful career.



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.

Learn more about giving to the KU School of Social Welfare.

Give Today

Partner with us to ensure the School of Social Welfare remains a vibrant hub of change and innovation for our society.



Resources for Alumni

KU School of Social Welfare alumni have access to continuing education events and recorded training events, presented by the School's Center for Community Engagement and Collaboration (CCEC).

Aerial view of the KU campus in fall with cloudy skies




Events for Social Welfare Alumni