UofL Celebrates 90 Years of Kent School of Social Work and Family Science

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The University of Louisville's Kent School of Social Work and Family Science is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2026. Over the past nine decades, the school has worked to bring positive change to individuals, families, populations, and communities through its education, research, and service initiatives. The school is recognized as the best social work program in Kentucky and a top 50 program nationally, with faculty conducting research around the globe and offering a full array of degree programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels.

Why it matters

The Kent School's 90-year legacy demonstrates its enduring commitment to social work education and its ability to adapt and innovate to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves. As one of the leading social work programs in the country, the school's continued impact on individuals, families, and communities is crucial, especially during times of social and economic upheaval.

The details

The Kent School's 90th anniversary celebration highlights include: being recognized as the best social work program in Kentucky and a top 50 program nationally; faculty and staff conducting research around the globe and maintaining a $27+ million research portfolio; offering five degree programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels; celebrating 30 years of the PhD program with 120 graduates in 25 states and three countries; having two faculty members who are Society for Social Work Research (SSWR) Fellows; leading a national training initiative for oncology social workers; and managing a Couple and Family Therapy program and clinic that provides therapy services to the local community. The school also engages students through practicum placements across 31 states and two countries, and partners with Kentucky's Child Welfare CW-PREP program to prepare students for careers serving children and families.

• The Kent School was founded in 1936.
• The school's PhD program launched 30 years ago.
• The Couple and Family Therapy program was established 30 years ago.
• From fall 2024 to spring 2025, Kent School students provided over 124,000 hours of service through practicum placements.
• The school celebrated its 90th anniversary with a gala event on March 28, 2026.

What’s next

The Kent School plans to continue its legacy of excellence in social work education, research, and community engagement, with a focus on expanding its global reach and impact.