Unity Week Header

Unity Week is a weeklong celebration of collaboration, achievement and shared purpose within the School of Social Work. Unity is a reflection of the very fabric of social work practice.  It is through unity and coming together that we create lasting change, amplify our commitment to social justice and strengthen our resolve to serve others.  The theme for this first annual SSW Unity Week was Fostering Connection, Creating Impact. 

Unity Week Highlights

  • UMSSW State of the School and Impact Report

    Wednesday, 3/12/25 4:00pm-6:00pm
    Postmus, joined by SSW Faculty and Staff, discussed current events and celebrated accomplishments across the SSW in a series of fireside chats.

    UMSSW State of the School and Impact Report

  • Unity Week Lecture: Harnessing Joy for Collective Action

    Thursday, 3/13/25 9:00am-11:00am
    This workshop powerfully reframed joy and love not as passive responses, but as bold, deliberate strategies rooted in historical justice movements. Through collaborative dialogue and shared learning, participants uncovered how collective joy fuels collective action and advocacy. Grounded in the principles of Action, Compassion, and Engagement (ACE), this workshop equipped social workers to amplify their impact, combat burnout, and build resilient, thriving communities.

  • JEDI Awards

    Thursday, 3/13/25 12:00pm-2:00pm
    The UMSSW recognized a SSW faculty member, staff member, student, alumni, group and community partner for the 3rd annual JEDI Awards. The JEDI Awards honor those committed to a JUST society while inspiring EMPOWERMENT within their communities. These awards recognize those who demonstrate DETERMINATION while advocating for marginalized voices and advocating for fairness. Like a true JEDI, these individuals use their unique strengths and extraordinary abilities to create lasting IMPACT.

    JEDI Awards

  • Alumni Reception and Awards Ceremony

    Thursday, 3/13/25 2:00pm–4:00pm
    A reunion and celebration of SSW faculty and alumni, the scholarship and stewardship luncheon honored the contributions of SSW faculty and alumni.

    2025 Award Winners

Important Links

Fireside Chats

Admissions

Global Initiatives

Institute for Innovation and Implementation

FAQs

Why are we shifting and consolidating events over a shorter period?

A consolidated week of events allows for greater participation, as alumni and other stakeholders can attend multiple events without the challenge of coordinating schedules several times throughout the year. This will also create a more vibrant atmosphere and foster stronger connections among attendees. By clustering events around a common theme, we can elevate the visibility of our school and our accomplishments. 

Who can attend Unity Week?

UMSSW students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community partners are invited and encouraged to attend Unity Week.   

 

Ready to be a Changemaker?