75 years of community partnerships
The study of social work got its start at UCLA in 1947. Seventy-five years later, the Department of Social Welfare remains committed to enhancing human well-being and promoting social and economic justice for disadvantaged populations.
Throughout the 2022-23 academic year, alumni and other supporters were invited to join UCLA Luskin Social Welfare at a series of events marking three-quarters-of-a-century of making a difference in Los Angeles and cities around the world.
Stories relating to the anniversary are collected on this page, highlighting recent news, past events and some of the people who have played important roles in the department’s history. Click the links below to read the stories.
ANNIVERSARY EVENTS
75th Anniversary Gala and Reunion
UCLA Social Welfare’s diamond anniversary was celebrated at a gala and reunion of alumni, students, faculty and staff, including the presentation of the annual Joseph A. Nunn Social Welfare Alumnus of the Year award.
Saturday, May 6, 2023
Centennial Terrace, UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center
A Conversation With L.A. County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
Centennial Ballroom CD, UCLA Luskin Conference Center
Holly Mitchell
As part of UCLA Luskin Social Welfare’s 75th anniversary commemoration, Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell led a conversation about the vital government safety net needed to safeguard the well-being of millions of L.A. families. Mitchell also shared information about county efforts to alleviate poverty among children and hard-to-reach populations; a pilot program that provides a guaranteed income to households in need of financial stability; and challenges to social services programs deemed coercive and intrusive. Following Mitchell’s remarks, Judith Perrigo of the UCLA Luskin Social Welfare faculty led a dialogue that included several audience questions.
In the Community: Field Education Through the Years
This reception and program honored community groups and agencies that UCLA Luskin Social Welfare has partnered with for field placements, as well as the field instructors and supervisors who have guided our students over the years. It was held Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at the James West Alumni Center at UCLA.
Watch a video about the importance of field education
View photos from the event on Flickr
Social Welfare Research at UCLA: Past, Present and Future
An exclusive event for current Social Welfare PhD students and doctoral alumni, plus faculty and staff.
Monday, November 14, 2022
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM PST
Legacy Room, UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center
SPEAKERS:
William P. and Ruth Gerberding Endowed Professorship
University of Washington
Darcey H. Merritt PhD ’06, MSW ’03
Associate Professor, New York University Silver School of Social Work
Incoming Professor, University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice
Moderated by Rosina Becerra PhD
Dean and Professor Emeritus, UCLA
