June 2025 Dean's Note

Over the last several years, we have made tremendous progress toward accomplishing the goals set forth in the Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW) strategic plan. I shared some of the school’s recent accomplishments during my remarks in our first State of the School event on May 7. It was wonderful to connect with so many of you there (in case you missed it, you can watch a video or see pictures from the event). As I near the one-year anniversary of my appointment as dean, I continue to be inspired by GSSW’s community and am grateful for their efforts to actualize a more just society.

At a time when so many are experiencing increased marginalization, disenfranchisement, and oppression, and efforts are being made to erase history and people, we know that the work of social work is more important than ever. Here at GSSW, that work is fueled by our commitment and capital campaign. Our commitment is on display in the recent installation of the African American Experience Timeline in our patio foyer — the first of many efforts to come.

With our capital campaign, The Denver Difference, we are investing in the future of GSSW and the profession. I know that our vision is supported by many of you. Thank you to each of you who have made donations to GSSW throughout the year and as a part of our 1DAY4DU campaign on May 14, when we raised $12,500!

It was my pleasure during our State of the School to also announce a new $1-million matching gift for GSSW’s Institute for Human–Animal Connection (IHAC), which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. This transformational gift from IHAC Executive Director Kevin Morris and his wife, Kristin Des Marais, is extraordinarily generous and is a signal of strength and a reflection of their belief in our next chapter. This legacy gift has been purposefully positioned as an opportunity for matching investments, with the hope that it will inspire others to join and support the work of IHAC. Thus, please consider how you might be a part of this unique giving opportunity. Notably, this gift is one of only nine commitments of $1 million or more ever made to GSSW, and it is also the first single-standing principal gift to GSSW in the last 15 years. Investments like this one will allow GSSW to grow its academic presence throughout Denver, Colorado, and nationwide — now and into the future.

As we look toward the future, our dedicated staff and faculty, students, and alumni will continue to lead and catalyze social change. In this issue, we feature Professor Emeritus Jeffrey Jenson, who has collaborated on a new prevention science book promoting youth behavioral health with alumna Anne Williford (PhD ’09). We have two alumna-focused stories as well. The first is about MSW alumna Libby Bortz (MSW ’67), who has made a significant public impact and continues to be actively engaged in social change work. We also provide a small glimpse into the deep and lasting impact on clinical education and practice that has been made by MSW alumna Jana Edwards (MSW ’78). Please also listen to this month’s episode of our latest Brave Ideas for Social Change podcast episode. My interview is with Professor Johnny Kim, who shares his expertise and commitment to expanding the use of solution-focused brief therapy to meet youth mental health care needs.

I am deeply grateful to the GSSW community for its commitment and enthusiasm. Your ongoing efforts and willingness to contribute your time, talents, skills, and donations to serve the profession and support GSSW are invaluable. I look forward to continuing to work together in the future.

Henrika McCoy, MSW, MJ, PhD
Milton Morris Endowed Dean of Social Work and Professor