Building a social work workforce in tumultuous times: Upholding equity, inclusion, and disability joy

Panelist(s)

Francie J. Julien-Chinn, PhD (she/her/hers)

Associate Professor
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Theresa M. Kreif, MSW, LSW (she/her/hers)

Director, Pacific Pathways & Workforce Development Initiatives
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Robin G. Arndt, MSW, LSW

Field Coordinator
University of Hawai'i
Aimee Chung, MSW, LSW

Field Education Coordinator
Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health

Moderator(s)

Wendy J. Lum, MSW, M.Ed.

Director of Workforce Development Hub
University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health

In today’s tumultuous political climate, social workers are more essential than ever. Yet, our workforce faces a shortage. This panel explores strategies to strengthen the social work workforce while upholding equity, inclusion and disability joy at all levels of practice, despite ongoing political challenges.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:

Explore factors driving the growing demand for social workers and the workforce implications.
Identify barriers to recruitment and retention in social work, focusing on solutions that promote a workforce reflective of the diverse communities it serves.
Discuss collaborative strategies and cross-sector partnerships to promote inclusive social work education, licensure, and career pathways, with a focus on disability joy and diversity.