Diversity & Social Justice Fellowship
Mission
The DSJ Fellowship exists to support emerging leaders who are committed to advancing the School of social Work's mission within the School and broader community. The Fellowship provides students with structured opportunities to apply their passion for equity and advocacy through collaborative projects, mentorship, and community engagement.
Purpose
The Fellowship serves to:
- Foster student leadership in equity and social justice work across the university and communities we serve.
- Provide meaningful training and mentorship in social justice practice and project development.
- Create tangible change through student-led initiatives that align with the School’s mission.
- Build a community of practice among students, faculty, and community partners invested in advancing equity and justice.
Values
- Community-Centered Leadership: Honoring lived experiences and amplifying marginalized voices through ethical, relational leadership.
- Collaboration over Competition: Working together with transparency, shared power, and mutual respect.
- Equity in Action: Actively identifying and addressing systemic barriers to inclusion and justice.
- Courageous Engagement: Leaning into discomfort, challenging the status quo, and standing up for what is just.
- Authentic Partnership: Building genuine, reciprocal relationships with community members as co-creators of change.
- Accountability and Growth: Embracing feedback, reflection, and personal growth as essential to social justice work.
About the DSJ Committee
The DSJ Committee advances anti-racism, equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives within our School of Social Work and beyond. We're committed to addressing systemic inequities, enhancing cultural humility, and fostering an inclusive academic and professional environment. Through this fellowship, you'll be contributing directly to our mission of integrating social justice principles into everything we do—from curriculum and pedagogy to community engagement and advocacy initiatives.
What to Expect in Your Fellowship
Throughout this year-long journey, you'll work collaboratively on a meaningful project that embodies our core values. You'll engage in reflective learning, skill-building activities, and real-world application designed to strengthen your confidence and competence as a social justice leader.
This fellowship balances structured learning with hands-on experience. You'll complete foundational training, participate in regularly scheduled group sessions, work closely with dedicated mentors, and contribute to initiatives that create lasting change within our school and broader community.