As I begin my tenure as Dean of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign School of Social Work, I am honored to join a community defined by compassion, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to advancing social justice. From my very first day on campus, I felt a genuine sense of possibility rooted in the remarkable people who make this School such a special place.

Already, I have learned that our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners have demonstrated the transformative power of social work over the past year. Together, we have expanded knowledge through impactful research, prepared the next generation of leaders, strengthened communities, and advocated for more equitable systems that improve lives. In a world that continues to face complex challenges, this work has never been more important.

As you read this report, I hope you will find the many ways our School is making a difference through innovation, collaboration, and service. Behind every accomplishment is a community of people who believe in the power of social work to create meaningful, lasting change.

Looking ahead, there is much to be excited about. The launch of our new Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program marks an important milestone for advancing professional education. At the same time, our continued investment in research and workforce development initiatives strengthen our ability to address society's most pressing challenges. These efforts reflect our commitment to preparing leaders, advancing evidence-based solutions, and ensuring that communities across Illinois and beyond have access to a highly skilled and responsive social work workforce.

Our alumni, donors, and friends are an essential part of this story. Your generosity, advocacy, mentorship, and continued engagement help expand opportunities for our students, support groundbreaking research, and grow our ability to serve communities in meaningful ways. These partnerships extend the reach of our core mission.

Together, we will continue to educate compassionate leaders, advance innovative solutions, and create lasting positive change for individuals, families, and communities.

With gratitude,