Rutgers School of Social Work Faculty Present at SWSD 2026 in Nairobi
Rutgers School of Social Work was well represented at the Joint Conference on Social Work, Education, and Social Development (SWSD 2026) in Nairobi, Kenya June 25-30, 2026 which was organized by the International Association of Schools of Social Work, International Federation of Social Work, and International Council on Social Welfare. This year’s theme, "Harambee: For Sustainable Shared Futures," was grounded in the principle of collective action (Harambee), highlighting the essential role of social work and social development in advancing international human rights, promoting social justice, and fostering inclusive, equitable societies.
Rebecca Davis (Associate Professor of Professional Practice and Director, Office of Global Social Work Programs) presented on a global curriculum development project as part of "Global Social Service Workforce Strengthening Initiative: Social Work Supervision: Advancing Quality Care and Decision-Making" and Antoinette Farmer (Professor, Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs & Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) presented on her research in "School Social Worker’s Perceptions of the Challenges to Implementing Bullying Prevention Programs." George Leibowitz (Dean and Distinguished Professor) presented "All Hands Design in Deep Learning Models: Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Patient-Centered Approaches to Address Substance Use and Improve Global Health."
Dr. Davis was also a participant in a presentation by the Director of the Global Social Service Workforce Alliance, Hugh Salmon, regarding the globally recognized role of practice education in developing social work competencies, including global practicum learning opportunities. She also participated in a presentation on a joint research project of the International Association of Schools of Social Work and the Alliance of Child Protection in Humanitarian Action focused on identifying best practices and existing curriculums on social work in humanitarian and emergency settings. The SWSD 2026 Conference provided opportunities to develop potential collaborations with colleagues in the Philippines, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, and Iceland to name a few.
