Jackson State University School of Social Work Celebrates 30 Years of Pioneering Excellence

Posted by Ashley Brown
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Jackson State University commemorated a significant milestone on Oct. 28, as it celebrated the 30th anniversary of its School of Social Work with a special event titled “30 Years of Resilience: Recovering Thee History of the School of Social Work.” The celebration was a tribute to the program’s enduring commitment to social justice, community empowerment, and academic excellence. 

Celebrating Trailblazing Figures

Jackson State University celebrates its 30th anniversary, honoring pioneering figures like Dr. Gwendolyn Prater and highlighting the program’s lasting impact on Mississippi communities.
Jackson State University celebrates its 30th anniversary, honoring pioneering figures like Dr. Gwendolyn Prater and highlighting the program’s lasting impact on Mississippi communities. (Photo by H.T. Sampson Library Archives)

The event honored pivotal leaders in the field, including Dr. Gwendolyn Prater, dean emerita of the School of Social Work, Dr. Jean Brooks, retired chair of the Bachelor of Social Work program;. Ruth Williams, retired associate dean; and retired faculty members Dr. James Brooks, Ms. Eva Bowie Ellis, and Dr. Phyllis Hammond. These individuals played a crucial role in building the foundation of what has become a cornerstone of social work education in Mississippi.

Reflecting on the program’s legacy, Dr. Gwendolyn Prater shared, “We faced many challenges in the early days, but our commitment to social justice and community service never faltered,” Prater said in her remarks. “Our mission has always been to empower students to become compassionate leaders who advocate for social justice and human dignity.”

Thirty Years Of Impact

Pictured from left: Dr. Gwendolyn Prater, Ms. Eva Bowie Ellis, Dr. Phyllis Hammond, Dr. Jean Brooks, and Dr. James Brooks sit in front of a mural dedicated to their legacy. The mural was painted by JSU alumna Reshonda Perryman. (Aron Smith/University Communications)
Pictured from left: Dr. Gwendolyn Prater, Ms. Eva Bowie Ellis, Dr. Phyllis Hammond, Dr. Jean Brooks, and Dr. James Brooks sit in front of a mural dedicated to their legacy. The mural was painted by JSU alumna Reshonda Perryman. (Aron Smith/University Communications)

Since its founding in 1994, JSU‘s School of Social Work has dedicated itself to addressing pressing issues such as poverty, racial inequality, and healthcare disparities. The school offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that have equipped generations of social workers to serve communities throughout urban and rural Mississippi. Graduates of the program are making a significant impact in various fields, including child welfare and mental health advocacy.

Meaningful Conversation

A highlight of the anniversary celebration was a panel discussion entitled “The Legacy of Social Work.” It featured insights from notable figures such as Senator Hillman Frazier, former field instructor Paula Van Every, Dr. Linda West, and Dr. Sharron Williams, a member of the inaugural MSW graduating class of 1997. The panel explored the milestones and achievements of the School of Social Work over the past three decades and examined its vital role in promoting equity and accessibility in higher education.

“Being part of the first class was both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Dr. Williams. “We knew we were setting the stage for future generations to continue the fight for social justice.” 

The event culminated in the unveiling of a mural dedicated to the legacy of the program’s founders, located in the School of Social Work-Master of Social Work Program building. This mural honors the contributions of Dr. Prater, Dr. Williams, Ms. Ellis, Dr. Brooks, Dr. Brooks, and Dr. Hammond. Created by JSU alumna Reshonda Perryman, the mural serves as a lasting tribute to the vision and determination of those who laid the groundwork for the school, now home to Mississippi’s only Ph.D. program in social work.

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