About Rutgers School of Social Work

Dear Rutgers School of Social Work Community,

It is my distinct honor to serve you as dean of Rutgers School of Social Work.

The School has had an impressive history as a leader in social work education since its founding in 1954, and I am energized by the opportunity to build upon its many accomplishments. Today, with its top-ranked academic programs, research centers and institutes, and continuing education offerings, the School remains a powerhouse of innovative pedagogy, research productivity, and community-based teaching and practice led by pioneering faculty and leaders in the field. Deeply grounded in inclusion, intersectionality, diversity, equity, and advancement, our School presents a force for good in New Jersey and the world at large.

I step into this role during what some are calling an unprecedented time that has been mired in conflict. But I believe complex problems have always existed and will continue to challenge us. It’s up to us, from nascent social workers to those who have spent decades in the field, to curtail divisions by acknowledging, assessing, and developing appropriate actions to the issues we face. This work is what I believe is at the heart of social work. It is our job to collaborate and lead humanity forward. Together, we can elevate the common good through innovative and restorative approaches that are deeply rooted in equity. Some of the specific challenges I plan to address during my tenure as dean are bridging divides within and outside our communities, making programs accessible and equitable, and tackling barriers to education through innovation and technology, all while reminding our community what brought them to social work and why they’re here.

I owe a debt of gratitude to my predecessors and the outstanding faculty and staff whose talents and commitment have elevated our School to being named one of the top in the nation. With our dynamic students and alumni, the School of Social Work community is a thriving group that I am proud to serve.

I hope you will join me in this work moving toward a more just future.

In Community,

George

George S. Leibowitz, Ph.D.
Dean and Distinguished Professor
Rutgers School of Social Work