By Jaelon Jackson
School of Social Work
The University of Texas at Arlington's School of Social Work held its Spring Commencement Ceremony Friday, May 9, graduating three PhD, 120 master’s and 91 bachelor’s students.
The ceremony, held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, celebrated the achievements of students across the Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work and PhD in Social Work programs. Family, friends and faculty gathered to recognize the hard work, resilience and dedication of the Spring 2025 graduates as they stepped into the next chapter of their personal and professional lives.
“This graduating class has truly excelled in developing a comprehensive understanding of social work principles and practices,” said Dr. Darlene Hunter, BSW Program director. “Their ability to think critically and engage with clients in a supportive and empathetic way has been impressive.”
She also highlighted the cohort’s involvement in student organizations and advocacy efforts, such as Advocacy Day and peer-led wellness events.
Dr. Regina Praetorius, associate dean for academic and student affairs, reflected on the collective strengths of both undergraduate and graduate students.
“There are three things I want to highlight about this semester’s graduating class: their dedication, their perseverance and their solidarity,” she said. “As I look through the names, I see students who have balanced full-time studies with parenting, caregiving, employment, and military service. Others have navigated personal hardships and health challenges while continuing to move forward in their education.”
Praetorius also emphasized students’ ongoing commitment to serving others through leadership in their communities, workplaces and places of worship.
The School of Social Work’s curriculum prepares students to meet the evolving demands of their professions through evidence-based instruction, community partnerships and innovative learning methods. Faculty integrate current research and emerging technologies into the classroom, including simulation-based activities and virtual reality tools, to enhance students’ readiness for practice.
The two PhD graduates were acknowledged for their scholarly contributions and academic achievements, representing the highest level of academic accomplishment within the school.
Praetorius offered words of encouragement to all graduates entering the next phase of their professional journeys.
“When things go wrong, don’t go with them,” she said. “We are ever-changing—and how you live your call to social work will evolve, too. Embrace that growth.”
The ceremony concluded with the traditional walk across the stage, marking the official transition from student to graduate for the Spring 2025 class.
To look at photos from the commencement ceremony click here: https://www.uta.edu/academics/schools-colleges/social-work/news/photos
To watch the Spring 2025 Commencement, click here: https://www.uta.edu/commencement/ceremonies/conhi-coed-sw-spring-2025
