SSW alum: M.S.W.'08

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I'm most excited about the opportunity to connect with the diverse and talented student body at VCU. I am passionate about engaging with students and supporting them as they build a strong foundation for their careers as effective social workers. I find it incredibly rewarding to encourage students to use their voices to advocate for marginalized populations and to speak out confidently on issues of social justice. I am eager to create a classroom where all students feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their full potential.

About me: After receiving my M.S.W. from VCU in 2008, I worked as a school social worker for 12 years, in the Richmond area. I recently obtained my Ed.D. in educational policy, planning, and leadership from the College of William and Mary. Currently, I serve as the director of student support and the assistant director of the elementary school at an independent school.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Working with students! VCU's social work program strives toward accessibility and inclusivity, which are both values at the core of my approach to education. I aim to support students with these ideals in mind and to help them achieve their goals.

About me: Bianca Altamirano Kelly, Ph.D., M.S.W. (she/her), graduated with her B.S.W. and M.S.W. from Arizona State University. After working in the field in a variety of settings, ranging from child welfare to domestic violence and mental health, Bianca attended the University of Washington, where she earned her doctorate from the School of Social Work. 

After completing her doctorate, Bianca worked primarily in administrative roles within higher education. As a first-generation college student, Bianca strives to support students as they navigate the challenges of attending university and hopes that she can encourage students to excel and “dream big!”

SSW alum: M.S.W.'99

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love the opportunity to work with new social workers. They are often energized and excited to learn. They push me to stretch and to continue growing. It's an honor and a privilege to support new social work students grow and flourish in the profession.

About me: I'm a United States Air Force Veteran and absolutely love my two dogs, Takoda, Karma and Keme.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? As an educator, I learn from my students as much as I hope they learn from me. What excites me most about teaching with VCU is connecting with the diverse experiences students and future social work practitioners bring.

About me: I earned a bachelor’s degree in women’s studies at The Pennsylvania State University (WE ARE). I went on to earn an M.S.W. from Temple University followed by an M.Ed. and Ph.D. from Widener University.  

Since entering the social work field, I have had the opportunity to work in various capacities within the field of clinical social work. I began my work doing advocacy for people impacted by intimate partner violence in MT. I have worked with various nonprofit organizations in Philadelphia and Camden, N.J., implementing various modalities of therapy with families and adolescents within the juvenile justice system. I also have experience as a sexuality educator and advocate. 

My work aims to address the sexual and mental health needs of first- and second-generation immigrant individuals. I have practiced social work internationally and am passionate about helping future social work practitioners develop a global framework regarding all aspects of human behavior. 

Because my special niche is international social work, I have had the privilege to work in agencies in the U.S., UK, France, Japan, South Korea, Morocco, Burkina Faso, Niger, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Algeria on various topics such as sexuality education, testing and trauma counseling, 

My clinical practice specializes in working with individuals with bicultural identities as licensed mental health clinician, and sexual health education and advocacy. 

  Research interests and specialization 

• The Experiences of First-Generation Afro-Caribbean Women Navigating Sexuality and Their Bicultural Identity as a Result of Immigration  
• Sexual Health Disparities among First-Generation Individuals 
• Mental Health Concerns among First-Generation Individuals  
• Curriculum Writing for Culturally Competent Comprehensive Sexuality Education 
• Sexual Culture and Immigration  
• Sexual Migration 
• Queerness, Immigration and Cultural Identity 
• Sexuality-related issues in therapy, i.e., sexual trauma, pleasure, identity 

SSW alum: M.S.W.’19

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Working with and getting to know my future colleagues!

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

About me: Dr. Baskind is dean emeritus of the VCU School of Social Work, having served as dean from 1992-2008 and again as professor from 2013 until retiring in 2024. Between 2018 and 2013 he served as ombudsman for VCU. 

Program designation: On-campus and online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? Being a small piece of each student's journey toward the development of a professional identity in the field of social work.

About me: Dr. Bekele is a licensed social worker with over 10 years of experience in child welfare, foster care and adoption, trauma-informed practices, equine-assisted therapeutic techniques, social work in international contexts, and social work in urban schools. She has earned a human services management certificate from The Network for Social Work Management and a school social work, educational specialist certificate through the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Dr. Bekele has a passion for coming alongside social work students as they develop in their professional identities as social workers, and a strong belief in the healing power of relationships. She is currently involved in research endeavors around belonging in the world of online education, social work in an African context, and the social work profession and motherhood.

SSW alum: B.S.W.'22; M.S.W.'23 

Program designation: B.S.W. online and on-campus formats

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love seeing and learning with students who are at different stages of their journey at VCU. Within my own education, the professors I had who breathed life into material really transformed the way I approached my role as a practitioner. I am excited to be able to share that same passion with current students.

About me: Emmin Bickford (they/them) received their M.S.W. from Virginia Commonwealth University in May 2023 and previously earned their B.S.W. and B.S. in psychology at VCU. During their time at VCU, they received the School of Social Work Service & Leadership Award in 2022 and the Elaine Z. Rothenberg Memorial Scholarship in 2023. They also received the Burnside Watstein Award for their work in the community in 2024.

Emmin is passionate about bringing gender and identity into the conversation and looking at the neocolonial causes of oppression and erasure within our current systems to imagine new ways of being and building community. Emmin's background includes working with survivors of interpersonal violence and in medical crisis work. They currently work in private practice with LGBTQ+ and/or neurodivergent youth and young adults. Emmin's work focuses on the praxis of minority identities and violence throughout their lifespan to look at the root of the harm and find the systemic, interpersonal and intrapersonal causes to build soul and relational healing. Their clinical and community-building experiences are inspired by transformative justice and abolitionist practices and perspectives. Emmin believes that sustainable healing takes place where there is play, art, movement, imagination and nourished hope.

Emmin is also a coauthor on the following publication: Bickford, E.; Matijczak, Angela; Kemmerer, Aaron; Martinez, Florence; and Wagaman, M. Alex (2023) "Applications of Transformative Justice Principles for Centering Transgender and Gender Expansive Experiences in Social Work Education and Practice," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 50: Iss. 1, Article 10.

Program designation: On-campus and online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I'm absolutely committed to the development and well-being of the human services workforce. And, honored that at this time in a 35-year career, I'm able to give back in this way.

About me: Glenda has 35 years of experience in human services. She has spent a significant part of her career in executive leadership roles in public and private agencies in rural, suburban and urban settings. Glenda holds graduate degrees from Columbia University’s School of Social Work in NYC (M.S.W.) and Virginia Tech’s Center for Public Administration and Policy in Blacksburg (M.P.A.). She also holds a B.S.W. from Norfolk State University and is proud to have attended a Virginia HBCU.

She has practiced at Harlem Hospital in New York City and the New York Urban League in Manhattan. She also worked in suburban and rural areas of Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina. Her work includes policy development, strategic planning, affordable housing supportive services, community development, human services administration and direct care practice.

Glenda is committed to community-based service delivery that lifts individuals and families out of generational poverty. She believes all individuals, families and communities have strengths. She supports interventions that apply a racial equity lens, are trauma-informed and ensures those served make decisions about their own lives. She also cares deeply about the development and well-being of the human services workforce and has been an advocate for additional resources that support this effort. She has participated in a number of local and regional conversations and workgroups focused on addressing critical human service issues, race and equity, housing needs for vulnerable communities of color, and integrated human services strategic planning.

She also completed a transformative race and equity learning program organized by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments/Government Alliance on Race and Equity. She is a graduate of Leadership Arlington and served on Fairfax County’s Park Authority Board. She has worked as an adjunct instructor and field liaison at GMU’s School of Social Work and is currently an adjunct at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work.

Currently, she is also active on a number of boards and advisory groups. In addition to her human services heart, Glenda is passionate about environmental justice, well-being healing, arts, textiles, travel, interior spaces, African American history and genealogy.

SSW alum: Ph.D.'22

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

SSW alum: B.S.W.'05; M.S.W.'08

Program designation: On-campus and online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I enjoy supporting students in becoming competent, ethical and professional social work practitioners. I also appreciate the opportunity to learn from students. I value the importance of field education, and I enjoy connecting with students and community partners. 

About me: I have nearly 20 years of social work experience at the state and local levels, including two years of international social work practice and training in the United Kingdom. I am a senior director at a local community services board. In this role, I plan, prioritize and coordinate services for individuals with developmental disabilities and serious mental illness. Outside of social work practice, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family and friends.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Something that I enjoy about teaching is having the opportunity to discuss course material and learn from students. I love hearing about students’ experiences, the work they are doing and what is happening in the community.  

About me: I have been teaching with VCU since 2008. I have covered several courses over the years but have primarily taught Core Concepts of Child and Adolescent Trauma in recent years. I also teach a similar online trauma course for Fordham University. 

In addition to teaching, I have a private clinical practice, providing individual and family therapy. I work primarily with adults and adolescents at this time, but have a history of working with children and adolescents in residential treatment, crisis intervention and assessment, and therapeutic school programs.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'13

Program designation: B.S.W. on-campus format

What excites you about teaching with the school? The vibrant community of students and faculty! I love engaging with students in their educational journey and connecting students with hands-on learning through service to RVA (Richmond). I love maintaining the connection as an alum of VCU and continued learning of best practices in the profession of social work.

About me: My main interests involve the continuum of oncology care, along with reducing social determinants of health and health care disparities that may impact a cancer diagnosis. My research has consisted of reducing psychosocial barriers to care and the importance of effective communication among the interdisciplinary health care team to improve patient care.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I am always excited to engage, empower, collaborate and challenge the next generation of social work leaders and practitioners!

About me: Katrice Byrd, D.S.W., LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, clinical supervisor and community-embedded faculty (CEF) at VCU. Dr. Byrd’s work has focused on healing through evidenced-based practices with adults, families, children, adolescents, active-duty service members and veterans. She has worked in settings that include employee assistance programs, private practice, hospitals, schools, military bases and various integrated settings.

 Recently, Dr. Byrd began re-focusing on military-connected populations, getting back to her roots as a retired service member. Dr. Byrd currently serves as a military behavioral health social worker and clinical researcher through community-based, institutional research and dissemination of evidenced-based research. 

She is also a longtime member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and has previously served as the co-chair of the N.C. NASW Legislative Committee and currently serves on the N.C. NASW Board of Directors. 

Dr. Byrd loves to write, listen to music and travel in her spare time. 

Areas of expertise

• Addressing Complex Traumas
• Reducing PTSD Symptoms
• Serious Mental Illness (SMI)
• Eradication of Social Determinants of Health
• Emotional Intelligence Self-Work
• Macro Level Social Work
• Social Justice

Evidence-based trainings

• Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Trauma-Focused Yoga
• Brainspotting
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Suicide-Prevention (CBT-SP)

Education & credentials

LCSW, North Carolina
LISW, South Carolina
D.S.W., Doctor of Social Work, University of Southern California
M.S.W., Master of Social Work, Howard University
M.A., Marriage and Family Counseling, Liberty University
B.S., Human Resources Management, Saint Leo University

SSW alum: M.S.W.'20; Ph.D.'24

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excited you about teaching with the school? It gives me joy knowing that I can help shape future social workers!

About me: This is my fourth semester teaching. I am excited!

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I received my M.S.W. at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2004 with a focus in mental health. Since that time, I’ve worked in various settings and cities including New Orleans, Oakland and Richmond. I'm currently in the field as a child and family therapist at a child advocacy center and have seen how my experiences have led me to my current role, which I very much enjoy. I'm excited to help support students in their journey to becoming social workers, and learning more about their interests, passions and abilities.

About me: I have experience working with children and families in various capacities: foster care and adoption, program management and supervision of staff, and mental health services. I enjoy using play, as well as creative and expressive arts, in my work with children, supervisees and adults.

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I enjoy building community with the students and seeing their growth as future social workers!

About me: I live in Northern Virginia, but I feel at home when I go to the VCU SSW building, thanks to our VCU SSW colleagues! Go VCU Rams!

SSW alum: M.S.W.’22

Current program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? As a two-time VCU alum, I’m excited about giving back to the learning community that prepared me for my career, and helping to spark enthusiasm into the next waves of professional social workers!

About me: As a trauma therapist, I have dedicated my career to working with people who are recovering from childhood and developmental trauma, complex PTSD and attachment wounds. My clients present with persistent anxiety and depression, low self-esteem and identity issues, insecurity and relationship challenges, and a wide range of “problem” behaviors. I am proudly gay identifying and affirming of sexuality, gender and relationship diversity, and have a special focus on working with men and LGBTQ+ mental health. My approach to therapy is attachment-informed, relational and experiential, integrating my training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR). 

Outside of my clinical work, I am an educator, performer, lifelong learner and coffee lover.

Program designation: Online field liaison 

Program designation: M.S.W. on-campus format

What excites you about teaching with the school? After spending most of my career in Criminal Justice-focused areas,I’m excited to interact with students who bring an expertise so different from mine to the classroom! I’m excited to teach Research Methods, and the importance of research grounded in social justice and ethics to future practitioners of social work.

About me: I graduated with my B.S. in Criminal Justice, Sociology, and Psychology from Old Dominion University and her M.S. in Criminal Justice and Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration with a Criminal Justice Policy concentration from Virginia Commonwealth University. My research interests include police and community interactions, police training, juvenile justice, and racial equity.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'23

Program designation: B.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Sharing my knowledge, experience and passion to future social workers and learning from them.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'80

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? What excites me the most about being a field instructor for VCU School of Social Work is having the opportunity to enhance students' knowledge and skills. I’m passionate about mentoring future social workers, helping them bridge the gap between theory and practice, and watching their confidence grow as they engage with clients and communities. Being part of their journey as they develop their professional identity is incredibly rewarding.

About me: I’m Dr. Dawson, a licensed clinical social worker and the clinical director and therapist at Darrian Dawson & Associates, LLC. This is my second year teaching at VCU, and I also have the honor of serving as an adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University. My professional journey includes roles as an adjunct professor at Tulane University and extensive experience in child protection services, mental health agencies, partial hospitalization programs and recovery management organizations.  

I am passionate about research, mental health advocacy, trauma recovery and promoting self-care. I firmly believe that access to quality mental health care is a fundamental right for all. Outside of my professional work, I am dedicated to empowering others through education and building resilience in individuals and communities.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Getting to teach and support the amazing students. I love getting to be a part of the community they create online. I also really enjoy getting to teach a range of classes and help students make connections between concepts. 

About me: I am the director of social services at Humboldt Senior Resource Center (aging services rock). I received my B.A. in psychology and my M.S.W. from Cal Poly Humboldt, and my Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.) from the University of Southern California (USC). I am a lifelong resident of Humboldt County (Northern California), where I enjoy spending time with my husband and playing in our cover band, Blue Rhythm Revue.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'15

Program designation: Online field liaison

About me: I am a licensed clinical social worker who graduated from VCU in 2015. I have about eight years of experience providing trauma-informed psychotherapy in nonprofit and private practice settings. The bulk of my experience is working with survivors of sexual assault and other relationally based traumas. I also have been a field instructor for M.S.W. interns and currently provide supervision for M.S.W.s seeking licensure. I currently live in Charlottesville with my spoiled cat, Saffron, and enjoy time outside, especially in the fall.

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I really enjoy partnering with students as they prepare to embark on their practicum work. I am a liaison for two M.S.W. programs (VCU and Simmons University) and feel VCU has an exceptional curriculum for generalist and specialist students.

About me: I went to undergrad at the University of Michigan and received my M.S.W at Boston College in 2008. I have worked at the VA for over 15 years in various capacities (inpatient psych/detox, homeless services and currently overseeing our facility’s M.S.W. student program and working with student veterans at local colleges/universities). I live in southern New Hampshire with my husband and three kids, and together we love skiing, spending time with family in the Midwest and staying active.

Program designation: On-campus and online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I'm excited about working with diverse populations.

Program designation: B.S.W. online format

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I am excited to see students’ growth and development as emerging practitioners. I am looking forward to supporting, encouraging and advocating for students so that they can have a successful field experience. 

About me: Rasnick Fullard is a St. Louis native who currently resides in Chicago. Rasnick received her M.S.W. from the University of Missouri- Kansas City. Rasnick hasmany years of direct practice experience working in the areas of school social work, homeless services with both adults and children, substance use services, and psychoeducation and prevention work with “at-risk” youth. 

Additionally, Rasnick holds a leadership position as a field supervisor at a nationwide drop-out prevention organization. Rasnick enjoys Summertime Chi, traveling and Zumba in her free time.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I have been so impressed with VCU's personification of social work values! I am so excited to join this team and help nurture a new cohort of social workers.

About me: Olivia Gerrish (she/her/hers) is a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with survivors of trauma. She holds an M.S.W. degree from the University of Wyoming and a B.S.W. degree from Weber State University. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in social work at the University of Illinois. 

Throughout her social work career, Livvy has served as an advocate, counselor, educator and organizer. She specializes in trauma-focused work; power-based and gender-based violence; and is passionate about trauma and violence prevention for individuals, families and communities. Livvy's research interests include power-based violence, masculinity and applied mental health practice. She is dedicated to advancing the field of social work through continuous learning and research and social worker mentorship. 

When Livvy is not in the office, she can be found drinking far too much Diet Coke, watching scary movies, volunteering or creating plans for projects that she will never have enough time to complete.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'17

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love the opportunity to help students discover the skills and strengths that they bring to this field. I was fortunate to have great mentors along my journey, and it feels good to be able to support students in theirs.

About me: Audrey Hajek serves as the child and family advocate services coordinator at the Greater Richmond Child Advocacy Center. Audrey works to serve children and their families who have experienced trauma and are actively part of a criminal investigation. Audrey received her master's degree in social work in 2017 from VCU and became a licensed clinical social worker in 2022. Audrey utilizes the various skills learned through her social work background to provide safety, support and hope for those she serves.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'94

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I enjoy the classroom. The joy of teaching is found in learning from others in a community where everyone's voice is part of the learning journey. I have learned so much from the School of Social Work and leadership. As an adjunct, my work within the field comes alive in the classroom. Applying our work to help others and make a difference, one relationship at a time, and using our voice to influence policy are key components of my approach as an instructor.

About me: I am the local education lead and systems coach for Virginia Tiered Systems of Supports (VTSS). As a licensed clinical social worker and certified school social worker, I have over 28 years of practice in school social work, PK-12 education and social-emotional wellness for staff, students and families.

Through ongoing research, I am able to collaborate with my colleagues to provide professional learning and coaching that supports divisions in improving outcomes for students, staff, community members and families. More recently, I developed a train-the-trainer process with a team to support our work's capacity and sustainability.

I am best known for my work on trauma-sensitive schools, systems change, risk assessment process and support, collective care for students and staff, and implementation of multi-tiered systems of support. I love to journal, hike, bike unique Virginia trails, travel, sing and engage in opportunities that combine creativity and learning. As a mom and Gigi, I'm always learning and laughing. My passion for teaching comes from my joy of learning from others and learning from different perspectives and experiences.

Program designation: On-campus and online field liaison

About me: Received an M.S.W. from the University of Maryland, Baltimore in 2015; eight years of micro practice and one year of macro practice in current position. 

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

SSW alum: M.S.W.'04

Program designation: B.S.W. Program online format and online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? Seeing the field of social work again through the eyes of our students while simultaneously learning from them! Also, being able to use my field knowledge to prepare our future social workers for graduation and beyond.

About me: I am a graduate of Old Dominion University with a degree in sociology-criminal justice minor; I then obtained my M.S.W. from Virginia Commonwealth University. I have been a school social worker for 18 years, and train others within the school system on understanding behavioral assessments and implementing appropriate behavior plans. I have been a field instructor for VCU for several years. Outside of the world of social work, I can be found traveling, cooking or engrossed in plus-size fashion.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love engaging with  students around different perspectives, experiences and ways of being in the world and in social work. I learn something every class, with every interaction, and am honored to be a part of collectively moving the way we think about and practice social work, and child and family well-being, specifically, into new realms. 

About me: I have about 15 years of experience in direct practice, clinical, mezzo and macro settings, largely focused on child and family well-being, including mental health, housing advocacy, child welfare and state social services systems. Currently, I lead special projects within the Child Welfare Information Gateway, a service of the Children’s Bureau. I live outside of Richmond with my children, who never cease to amaze and inspire me!

SSW alum: B.S.W.'02; M.S.W.'06

Program designation: On-campus and online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I value the opportunity to join students on their journey to becoming social workers, in whatever capacity they choose. I am excited every day to share my passion for the profession, community, and to learn with and from students in class and in the community. 

About me: As a social work alum from the VCU School of Social Work, it is an honor to be teaching in the program from which I earned my degrees. I have been a social work educator for 16 years and am truly passionate about community engagement and partnerships, as well as community engaged learning, which led to my career in social work field education. 

I specialize in conducting professional development training in organizations of all types on a number of topics including worker satisfaction, stress management, work-life balance, worker well-being and retention efforts, effective communication, and mindful leadership. I am a regular local and regional keynote speaker, presenter and workshop facilitator for public and , and institutions on these topics as well. I enjoy presenting at national conferences, on the topic of mindfulness as it relates to self-care and holistic well-being for students, educators and helping professions. I have a special research interest in holistic student well-being as it relates to their retention and success in college.This includes first generation and minority college students and how their experiences may differ. 

Program designation: Online field liaison

SSW alum: M.S.W.'13

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love the field of social work and am so grateful to work with and connect with future social workers. 

About me: I am a middle school teacher turned social worker, and most of my experience has been in education as a school social worker. I now work for the Virginia Department of Education as the school social work specialist, where I have the opportunity to collaborate with social workers throughout the commonwealth of Virginia.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'13

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I have a passion for class discussions and discourse. I enjoy interacting with students and helping them reach their potential. 

About me: I'm just a regular guy living in Richmond with my beautiful wife, amazing son and daughter, and two loveable dogs. I own and operate a private outpatient practice that focuses on treatment for addiction, chronic pain, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. I’ve been teaching at VCU since 2019. You’ll rarely find me without a coffee.

SSW alum: B.S.W.'98; M.S.W.'00

Program designation: M.S.W. on-campus format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Watching the growth of future social workers as they apply coursework, literature review and field work to classroom discussion, peer supervision and case formulation.

About me: I’m a licensed clinical social worker; registered play therapist-supervisor; certified trauma practitioner; and author. I am also in private practice and the owner of Replay Counseling Center, LLC, also known as Replay Counseling and Consulting. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents and their families focusing on trauma, anxiety and depression. I also enjoy teaching in the M.S.W. Program and training other clinicians to become clinical supervisors, LCSWs and play therapists.

» Meet instructors in our B.S.W. Program: Learn more about Nikole R. Jiggetts. 

SSW alum: M.S.W.'02

Program designation: On-campus field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I am excited to help students grow in the field of social work and help prepare them for future social work employment.

About me: Jenny received her M.S.W. from Virginia Commonwealth University and participated in the Child Welfare Stipend Program. Upon graduation in 2002, Jenny began working at Charlottesville DSS and has held a variety of positions including CPS worker, prevention worker, IL foster care supervisor and foster care prevention supervisor. She is currently the chief of family services for the Charlottesville Department of Social Services.

She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has worked for the city of Charlottesville and in the area of child welfare for over 20 years.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love learning from students and hearing their stories and experiences with social work all over the country! I hope to inspire students to learn about different types of social work and gain real-world experience from course content to impact their work.

About me: I am a pediatric medical social worker in an emergency department at a pediatric facility. I also work as a forensic interviewer, speaking with children who have been subjected to sexual/physical abuse, human trafficking and exposure to major traumatic events. I train foster parents in my state and create content for child welfare trainings.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'00

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I graduated from VCU SSW in 2000. My field concentration field placement was at Richmond Behavioral Health Authority in the crisis unit. My placement was a wonderful experience, and my field instructor was awesome. I have served as a field instructor in the past, and serving as a field liaison gives me an opportunity to continue to give back to the profession. It's a privilege to be able to pass on what I have learned over the years and to help cultivate future social work professionals.

About me: I attained my M.S.W. from Virginia Commonwealth University. I completed my first year of the D.S.W. program at Barry University. Most of my career has been in direct practice, providing or supervising mental health services. A lot of my career has been working in intensive services which would include community mental health, PACT/ACT services, homeless services, crisis services and court-ordered substance abuse programming.

Working and/or supervising those programs was challenging, but I found the work most rewarding. In the last couple of years, I have switched gears a bit, and I am now working as a behavioral healthcare coordinator at a Medicaid managed care organization. While this position is very different from what I have been used to in the previous years, I have learned to appreciate the service I provide to members in helping them to understand and utilize their Medicaid benefits in ways that positively impact their mental health and overall well-being. I also have a small caseload of outpatient counseling clients that I provide therapy services to via telehealth.

SSW alum: M.S.W.’14

Program designation: On-campus field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I am looking forward to meeting the next generation of social workers and walking alongside them supportively as they start their careers in the field.

About me: I am a Tidewater native and currently work full time as a school-based mental health therapist in a large, diverse and densely suburban public school division. The majority of the last 10+ years of my career have been spent in the field of public education, school social work and the provision of direct clinical services to children and adolescents.

SSW alum: B.S.W.'09; M.S.W.'10

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Sharing my passion for clinical social work with others, and seeing students grow into successful clinicians.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'19

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I am particularly excited about sharing my professional experiences as a social worker with my students, to give them a real-world perspective to apply to what they learn in the class. I am also excited to learn from my students how I can be a better instructor and social worker. I love working with my class to create a learning environment that is compassionate, interactive, rigorous and fun! 

About me: Patrick Link currently works as a community-embedded instructor part-time for the VCU School of Social Work and full-time as program consultant, senior/child welfare stipend coordinator at the Virginia Department of Social Services (please reach out if you have any questions about the Child Welfare Stipend Program!). 

Previously, Patrick was the family services & operations manager at AFOI, a small, Richmond-based nonprofit dedicated to helping those impacted by the incarceration of a loved one. Patrick earned a B.S. in psychology and English from Virginia Tech in 2010. Following his graduation from college, he served in AmeriCorps for two years in Sonoma County, California, where he worked with ESL students in struggling schools, and also helped nonprofits and educational organizations build volunteer capacity. Following his service in AmeriCorps, he worked for years in fundraising for major HIV/AIDS service organizations in Los Angeles and New York. Wanting to leave the fundraising game, he enrolled in the M.S.W. Program at VCU, with a concentration in clinical social work. He graduated in 2019, but immediately decided to pursue mezzo/macro social work instead of clinical – he can't get enough of it! Courses he has taught include Concentration Social Policy: Child Mental Health; Research for Social Work Practice; Social Work Policy (606); Macro Social Work (602); and Human Behavior I and II.

In his spare time, Patrick enjoys reading high fantasy, doing the New York Times crossword and Spelling Bee, creatively writing, riding roller coasters, spending time with friends and family, pugs, beagles, carnivorous plants and just enjoying Richmond!

SSW alum: B.S.W.'15; M.S.W.'17

Program designation: Online field liaison

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

SSW alum: M.S.W.'02

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I am very passionate about growing future social workers and helping them to discover their unique passions within the field. VCU provided me with the skills to give back to the field of social work, and I am thrilled to be back home at the School of Social Work.

About me: In addition to my M.S.W., I graduated in May 2023 with my Doctorate in Social Work with a focus in administration and leadership. I have over 20 years of experience in social work practicing at the individual, group and system-levels across various settings including foster care, adoption, public and private mental health, juvenile corrections and public education. I am currently the director of student services at Stafford County Schools, where I was the coordinator of school social work services for five years. I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in attachment and trauma work with children and adolescents. I love helping social workers bring theory and policy into the practice sphere to create opportunities for change.

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? VCU has provided me an opportunity to empower students, build relationships and teach students those essential skills needed to enjoy a great career when they depart the school. 

SSW alum: Ph.D.'23

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

About me: Jen Murphy is a tenure-track assistant professor at The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work. Her research focuses on adolescent and young adult mental health and school social work practice.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'04

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I am passionate about finding the practical use for what is taught in the classroom. Making connections and forging understanding between theory and practice are what I most enjoy. It is a privilege to learn and collaborate with such wonderful people who are interested in bettering the lives of others.

About me: I began my career working directly with clients in the field of domestic violence. From there, I worked directly with clients in juvenile justice, in home services, treatment foster care and residential care. I am a licensed clinician with a certification in sex offender treatment. I currently provide licensure supervision for the next group of young professionals in the field.

SSW alum: Ph.D.'11

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? Teaching at VCU inspires me – our students are driven, thoughtful and committed to making a difference. I'm excited to teach here because it’s a place that values social justice, inclusion and preparing students to make a real impact. I look forward to sharing my clinical experience and helping students develop the skills and empathy needed for effective social work practice.

About me: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a strong foundation in clinical practice, human services and behavioral health. I hold a Master of Social Work, a Master of Human Services, and a Bachelor of Psychology with a minor in biology. My multidisciplinary education informs a holistic, client-centered approach that integrates mental, emotional and physical well-being.

I currently serve with the U.S. Defense Health Agency, where I support the mental health and wellness of service members and their families. My work reflects a deep commitment to trauma-informed care, culturally responsive practice and systems-level advocacy.

With experience across both civilian and military settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and professionalism to my teaching. I’m passionate about advancing social justice and equity – particularly for marginalized populations – and empowering the next generation of social workers to become ethical, effective and empathetic practitioners.

As an instructor, I strive to foster a dynamic and inclusive learning environment grounded in the core values of the social work profession: dignity, the importance of human relationships, service, integrity and social justice. Outside the classroom, I remain actively engaged in both clinical and community-based work, which allows me to keep my teaching closely connected to real-world practice.

SSW alum: B.S.W.’08; M.S.W.’10

Program designation: M.S.W. on-campus format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I'm always excited about the opportunity to engage students in community while expanding and challenging presenting patterns of thinking in an effort to produce transformative experiences!

About me: I am a two-time VCUSSW alum. VCU has been an integral part of both my professional and personal journey. It is at VCU that I experienced my own "aha" moments that led me not just to a job, but a profession that would prove to be both fulfilling and rewarding. Having engaged the curricula and the process here at VCU, I am always excited about aiding students to matriculate through their respective journeys! I can't wait to join you in community!

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? VCU is a perfect place for both teachers and students to engage in an action-packed, people-oriented learning environment. 

About me: I currently reside in northwest Pennsylvania. I received my bachelor's degree at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. After graduation, I moved to Boston and completed a certification in addictions counseling from UMass Boston, and an M.S.W. program at Salem State University in Massachusetts. I am currently completing my dissertation at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania.

Previous work experience includes 11 years working for the Department of Children and Families in Boston in the assessment, adoption and homeless Family units.

Due to medical challenges of my parents, I decided to return home, and I work full time as a medical social worker in the area of nephrology at an outpatient dialysis clinic in Pennsylvania. I have worked in this area for the past 10 years, advocating for patients rights, supporting them in making informed choices about their care and engaging other stakeholders in the community in providing resources to this vulnerable population.

I have been a field liaison for several years in addition to teaching Social Work Research, Policy, Substance Abuse, among others. My research interests include chronic illness and racial disparities in healthcare. I am also actively engaged in community efforts to promote equal access to voting and equal/equitable rights.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

Muna is a May 2025 Ph.D. graduate from the School of Social Work.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'12

Program designation: M.S.W. on-campus format

What excites you about teaching with the school? At my core, I am a learner. I love being in community with other learners – especially social workers, because we care about humans, systems and community. I am excited to have meaningful conversations with students and support their development of policy-related skills.

About me: For over 15, I have worked, studied and volunteered in the spheres of housing and education. I have led teams; facilitated groups, meetings and workshops; coordinated events for 10-1,000; and built programs to support unmet needs of youth and families. 

In my free time, I love exploring Richmond, eating yummy food and learning Spanish. I earned my Bachelor of Arts from Christopher Newport University and Master of Social Work from VCU.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

SSW alum: M.S.W.'16

Program designation: On-campus and online field liaison

About me: Nicole has been working in the field of public child welfare for over the last 20 years. She completed her master's degree in clinical social work at Virginia Commonwealth University. She spent 14 years working at local departments of social services in a variety of child welfare programs. She was a front-line child protective services investigator and supervisor of child welfare programs, including child protective services, prevention and ongoing services, and foster care. She joined the Virginia Department of Social Services in 2018 as the protection policy specialist and continues to serve in that capacity. 

SSW alum: M.S.W.’15, Ph.D.'24

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? The students. I’m consistently inspired by the depth and diversity of their thoughts, experiences and perspectives. Every class becomes a space of mutual learning, where I find myself growing alongside them. As an alum, I know firsthand how transformative this curriculum can be, and it’s deeply rewarding to now be part of that process – helping others navigate and shape their own journeys through it.

About me: Hilary is a graduate of the Ph.D (Social Work) and M.S.W programs at Virginia Commonwealth University. She also holds an M.A in eastern cassics from St. John’s College, New Mexico, and a B.A in western classics from St. John’s College, Maryland. Her professional work centers on the impact of governmental institutions on adolescence, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of refugee youth within public school systems. 

Her time working in schools across New Mexico, Texas and Virginia shaped her commitment to developing innovative, inclusive school-based programs that support all students. She previously served as program director at Asian Family Support Services of Austin, an organization dedicated to assisting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, with a focus on serving Asian communities. 

For five years, based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Hilary supported youth-focused agencies, programs and practices statewide through her role with the New Mexico Children, Youth & Families Department. She has recently transitioned from a faculty position at Nazareth University in New York to a supervisory role at Sound Behavioral Health in Washington state, where she continues her work with youth and families.

SSW alum: Ph.D.'21

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love being a part of students' social work journeys. I enjoy helping students get excited about new topics and material and appreciate the ways that my students help me grow as a social worker and an educator each semester. 

About me: Dr. Swan is a senior research scientist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Swan’s research is focused on improving reproductive health equity and increasing access to contraception and abortion, with an emphasis on eliminating discrimination and coercion in family planning care.

Program designation: Online field liaison

Program designation: M.S.W. on-campus format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love working with social work students and helping them develop the skills and tools to understand themselves and harness their power to make a positive difference in their world.

About me: I earned my M.S.W. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and my Ph.D. in adult learning from VCU. I am passionate about creating inclusive, trauma-informed and research-based content that makes communities safer for everyone. I've spent the majority of my career in the sexual and domestic violence field, as a survivor advocate, violence preventionist and researcher. When I’m not working, you can find me reading at a coffee shop or sewing in my craft room.

SSW alum: M.S.W.'14

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? Giving back to my profession, sharing ideas and inspiration with new generations of social workers, and continuously learning and growing in my field.

About me: I am a medical social worker who has worked in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings as a clinical social worker, case manager and behavioral health therapist. My research interests include health care policy, the impact of health literacy on health outcomes, gender and sexuality, field education and experiential learning, and photo-ethnography.

SSW alum: M.S.W.’09

Program designation: Online field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? Being part of the learning process and interacting with new social workers. I have always been amazed at being part of the growth process for students and watching the clinical skills and self confidence grow through the academic year.

About me: I have been a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia for the past 12 years, and I am currently providing video psychotherapy sessions through a local health care center. I also have a small private practice. My patients are older teens and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship and family issues, poor self-image, and academic and professional stressors.

I earned my master's degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2009, where I focused on the impact substance abuse and mental health challenges have on the individual across the lifespan.

I am married and have two adult children that I enjoy spending time with whenever possible. My husband and I have been traveling and have the goal of visiting every single state.  I am down to 10 states and plan on finishing within the next few years.

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I enjoy teaching the new generations of VCU aspiring social workers and appreciate the expertise and cohesion of the VCU School of Social Work faculty family!

Program designation: M.S.W. online format

What excites you about teaching with the school? I absolutely love meeting and mentoring future social workers! VCU is a wonderful, innovative program, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it!

Program designation: M.S.W. Program and B.S.W. Program online formats

SSW alum: M.S.W.'18

Program designation: On-campus field liaison

What excites you about teaching with the school? I love working with students and seeing their ongoing growth. The "aha moments" have been a highlight of my role as a field liaison. Students have incredible passion for learning, intuition and limitless potential. I am honored to be a part of their journey and continue to be passionate about empowering them as social workers.

About me: I am a community-based practitioner with a special passion for children and youth, teen mothers and foster/adoptive/kin families. I have worked in various roles, including foster work caseworker at a local Department of Social Services; education; nonprofit management; residentials; and in-home supportive services for foster families. Currently, I am a trauma responsive specialist. In Colorado, I helped to start and manage a free mentoring program for teen mothers.

I believe in partnership and finding creative ways to integrate businesses, nonprofits and community partners to support kids, youth and families. In each of my roles, I have helped to develop, plan and create programming for youth, team members or stakeholders. I love building and creating initiatives that are rooted in evidence-based practice and can impact long-term change. 

In my practice, I utilize strengths-based, trauma-informed communication skills, and incorporate humor and joy whenever appropriate. As a social worker, I have found that joy and hope have been integral parts of helping kids, teens and families heal. I have a passion for integrating health and fitness into my work with kids, teens and families, including broadening their opportunities to use movement to heal. Ask me about the power of running & #weoffthecouch. 

I am passionate about "helping the helper,” and providing tools for practitioners so they continue to have the ability to do their work in productive, trauma-informed and refreshed ways.