The University of Texas School of Social Work is committed to supporting our
community members who come from across the state and around the world and who
bring a variety of perspectives and experiences. Since its inception, social work education
and practice have advanced the values and ethical principles of social justice and human
flourishing. At UTSW these opportunities, values, and ethical principles drive our work.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
OUR FUTURE 2025-2027
The Steve Hicks of School of Social Work will focus on the strategic priorities of
Behavior Health and Global. Below are strategic actions to aim our focus and achieve our goals.
INNOVATORS IN BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Pioneer new approaches to health care delivery and health care access, and create a robust model for related research, innovation, education, and training.
We have developed a strategic partnership with Dell Medical School and welcomed the Hogg Foundation to the School of Social Work. These partnerships position the School of Social Work to better collaborate and optimize our collective strengths. We will enhance behavioral health by integrating robust evidence-based practices, promoting mental wellness, and reducing stigma.
Through community outreach, research, and collaboration with healthcare providers, we aim to ensure accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive care for all individuals, fostering resilience and improving overall well-being.
Action Steps
- Update course offerings
- Continue to hire faculty and staff of the highest caliber
- Increase Practicum placements
- Bolster behavioral health research, services
- Develop a fund-raising strategy that supports our new initiatives
GLOBAL RESEARCH & PARTNERSHIPS, AND EDUCATION
We are committed to advancing global education and research by fostering cross-cultural collaborations, promoting full access to knowledge, and developing innovative learning solutions.
Through strategic partnerships, interdisciplinary research, and the dissemination of best practices, we aim to empower learners worldwide, bridge educational disparities, and contribute to sustainable global development.
Action Steps
- Build and sustain international partnerships and collaborative opportunities between universities, research institutions, and organizations to facilitate joint research projects and educational programs.
- Enhance education to address global social issues, cross-cultural understanding, and fostering collaboration and interconnectedness
- Host conferences and workshops that bring together global experts to share knowledge and discuss emerging issues
- Extend global offerings to include faculty research and exploration
OPERATIONAL ACTIONS
For the 2025-2027 period, in addition to implementation of our strategic priorities,
we will prioritize these operational actions, identified by our eight committees who
gathered from Spring 2023 until April 2024.
- Attract and retain exemplary faculty and staff by providing innovative techniques and practices for teaching.
- Provide opportunities to connect in meaningful ways as an organization.
- Develop forums for sharing SHS Research to increase awareness and promote more inclusive community.
- Create and implement robust onboarding and offboarding processes.
- Build a mentoring program for staff and faculty.
- Develop an internal communication strategy that improves information flow and transparency.
- Provide development opportunities that include resources for conferences and training.
- Identify external funding, allowing researches to maintain projects while actively seeking new grant opportunities.
- Acknowledge the work and accomplishments of students, staff, and faculty in various venues.
- Increase the school’s visibility through collaborations with university partners.
- Create processes that generate and implement new ideas that foster creativity and develop innovative solutions.
- Continue to engage donors in our research programs, and strategic priorities
If you have questions or feedback about the strategic plan, please send them to ssw-plan@austin.utexas.edu