In 1974 there were concerns about the limited number of minority scholars able to do indigenous research to improve services to minority communities and the limited participation of minority professionals in the programs of the professional associations. An increase in the number of trained minority professionals would address both of these issues. Therefore, CSWE was awarded a grant by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to increase the number of minority doctoral students majoring in mental health research, preparing doctoral students to be among the next generation of NIMH funded mental health researchers.
In 1978 CSWE was awarded a grant for a mental health and substance abuse fellowship program funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This fellowship was established for doctoral students preparing for leadership roles in the mental health and substance abuse field.
CSWE is pleased to have had the opportunity to work with NIMH on the Underrepresented Mental Health Research Fellowship Program for more than 30 years. NIMH decided to discontinue funding fellowships through associations (PDF).
CSWE has supported over 600 fellows and 67% have received their doctorates. They are employed at universities and agencies throughout the United States.