Published on : May 22, 2025
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is convening an important national conversation on academic freedom. This virtual event will take place on June 12, 2025 from 2-5 p.m. EDT.Academic freedom has become an urgent concern for social work educators committed to critical inquiry, inclusive pedagogy, and the foundations of the profession. This virtual conversation will bring together faculty, thought leaders, and advocates from across the country for a timely dialogue on the evolving threats to academic freedom—and the strategies that those in the profession must adopt to respond with clarity, courage, and purpose.
"In a time of growing ideological pressure, it's critical that we engage in conversation on protecting academic freedom," said Dr. Megan Fujita, CSWE's Vice President for Education. "We hope this event will provide space for CSWE members to learn from national experts, feel supported, and uphold the ideals of higher education and values of our profession."
Speakers include:
- Dr. Halaevalu Fonongava'inga Ofahengaue Vakalahi, CSWE's President and Chief Executive Officer
- Oscar Carballo, Senior Associate, Lewis-Burke
- Dr. Allan Barsky, Professor at Florida Atlantic University's Sandler School of Social Work
- Dr. Philip Osteen, Professor and Dean of the University of Utah's College of Social Work
- Dr. Noelle DeLaCruz, a licensed and nationally-certified school psychologist and certified child & adolescent trauma professional
- Emerson Sykes, Staff Attorney, American Civil Liberties Union's Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project
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Patricia McGuire, President, Trinity Washington University