
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 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.

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.

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.

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.
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).
