Florida State University College of Social Work

08/25/2026

08/21/2026

It's been a great first week welcoming Dean Kirk Foster to FSU College of Social Work! We’re looking forward to the coming academic year under his leadership.

08/21/2026

This year, alumni Dr. Annelise Mennicke (MSW ’11, PhD ’15) received the 2026 Social Policy Researcher Award from the Society for Social Work and Research. She was recognized for her substantial contributions to violence prevention policy through her research related to interpersonal violence and prevention programs. https://bit.ly/4hDGFmP

08/20/2026

"I often say that I carry social work into every room I enter."

Alumna Jalaycia Lewis (BSW ’20) brings her social work skills to her unique role promoting community-centered pathways for innovative startups, connecting local entrepreneurs with resources and opportunities in the Baltimore, Maryland region. https://bit.ly/4x4u2WJ

08/19/2026

✨ Say hello to Leah Gold, one of the people who make our college a great place to work and learn. It was also Leah's birthday this week! 🥳

As the new semester begins, we asked Leah a few questions so you can get to know her a little better. ⤵️

- What’s your role, and how long have you worked here?
"I'm the Student Engagement Coordinator, and I've been working at the College of Social Work for about a year! This month will be my one year. 😊 I previously worked for the School of Theatre at FSU."

- What do you love about working at FSU College of Social Work?
"I love getting to interact and form connections with our students through different events and student groups. Being a part of our events and marketing team and creating activities to engage our students has been so much fun. I can't wait to do even more this year!"

- What’s something in your office that tells a story about you?
"I have little magnets that I made on my filing cabinet with photos of my two dogs and cat. I'm a huge animal person and love my pets. I think the magnets are so cute, and I love to see them every day. 🐱🐕"

- What’s your favorite FSU tradition or spot on campus?
"One of my favorite spots on campus is Mina Jo Powell Green! I love to do yoga there or lie under a tree and read, especially in the fall when the weather is nice and I can begin to see the leaves changing."

👉 If you'd like to get involved at the college, reach out to Leah at [email protected].

08/18/2026

We’re proud to celebrate doctoral candidate Beren Crim Sabuncu on receiving a 2025–2026 Graduate Student Research and Creativity Award recipient from the Florida State University Graduate School. This award recognizes her outstanding research and creative contributions to social and behavioral sciences.

Read more about her research at https://bit.ly/4zkIhIv

08/14/2026

⭐️ Lauren Antista is our Cathy Nipper Staff Member of the Year!

Lauren has been the media and communications manager for more than 14 years. She is also a two-time FSU graduate (BA ’05, MA ’09). She received multiple nominations for the award. One nominator shared that, “Her dedication, collaboration and generosity reflect the spirit of excellence this award represents.”

Another nominator wrote that, “Lauren wears many hats and is consistently working hard for the college, often doing things outside the scope of her position. She takes initiative to get things done for the college, ensuring we meet university and statewide policies. I believe she is one of the hardest working employees on staff and deserves this recognition after numerous years of dedicated work.”

08/10/2026

Different stories. Different paths. One profession. ❤️💛

“The world needs your heart. The world needs your voice. And more than ever, the world needs good and courageous social workers.” - Sarah Goldman (MSW ‘15), Summer 2026 Keynote Speaker

We’re so proud to count these students, alumni, and faculty among those who make up the community.