Rethinking Faculty Inclusion: Advocating for Disability Justice and Career Equity in Social Work Education

Presenter(s)

April Steen, PhD

Associate Professor of Social Work
Grand Canyon University
SG

Stephanie George, MSW, EdD

Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Professor of the Practice
University of Denver
Lyndal Bedford, LCSW, MSW

Instructor of Social Work/ Field Director
Warner University
Nakita Scott, DSW, LCSW, MSW, MA (she/her/hers)

BSW Field Director, Assistant Professor
Southeastern University

This interactive session explores the challenges faced by faculty with disabilities and non-tenure track in social work academia. Participants will examine disability justice principles, formulate strategies for institutional advocacy, and explore inclusive policies that foster accessibility, equity, and professional advancement, ensuring a more equitable and sustainable academic environment.

Learning Objectives:

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

Analyze the challenges faced by faculty with disabilities and non-tenure track in social work academia
Explore disability justice principles and their application in faculty policies and career advancement
Develop strategies to advocate for accessibility, equity, and inclusion in research and teaching environments while reducing institutional barriers and propose solutions for a more inclusive academic culture