UK College of Social Work MSW Graduates

 Hazard, Ky. (May 20, 2014) –  The University of Kentucky (UK) Center of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) recognized the 2014 graduates of UK’s College of Social Work Master of Social Work program offered in Southeast Kentucky (SEKY MSW).  Family members and friends gathered at the Perry County Central Auditorium in Hazard on May 16 to honor the 13 graduates during a commencement and community celebration.

Dean James “Ike” Adams of the College of Social Work provided the opening remarks and thanked the parents, spouses and coworkers for all they did to support the students during their educational journey.

Ashley Higgins, Programs and Outreach Coordinator, of NASW-KY, provided the commencement address.

Dr. Karen Badger, Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, of UK College of Social Work presented the donning of MSW hoods to the graduates. 

Dr. Fran Feltner, director of the UK CERH, delivered closing remarks and recognized the group for their dedication to their profession and to rural health.

Melissa Slone, faculty member of the College of Social Work, also stressed the need for social workers in this area of eastern Kentucky.  “Social Workers bring both needed services and resources to this area that may not be provided otherwise,” she said. “Graduates from this program are very unique because they learn from one another to strengthen their own skill and knowledge in this profession,” Slone said.

The SEKY MSW program has graduated 171 students since its beginning. It is an off-campus extension of UK’s College of Social Work that places its main emphasis on working professionals.  Students may take UK courses in Hazard at the UK CERH or in Prestonsburg at the Big Sandy Community and Technical College.  The courses offered are available during the evening hours.

For additional information about the program please call Melissa Slone or Dana Hays at 606-439-3557.