Kyaien O. Conner believes now’s as good a time as ever to be a leader in the social work field.
“There have been so many questions about if social work should be seen as a profession, and some clarity of what social workers actually do,” said Conner, who became dean of the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work this month. “Our profession is critically important. We are seeing spikes in mental health challenges and crises. There couldn’t be a time where the profession of social work is more critical.”
Conner, who was previously the school’s associate dean and director of the Center on Race and Social Problems, steps into the top leadership position at a time of scrutiny and misunderstanding of the social work profession.
The U.S. Department of Education now classifies Master of Social Work and Doctor of Social Work degrees as “non-professional” graduate degrees, capping federal student loans at lower limits.
Social workers provide case management, and they can work in health care, social services and policy, Conner said. To address the stigma, Conner said she wants to amplify the role social workers play in society, and increase the opportunities and outreach students have in the community.
The National Institute of Mental Health estimates more than one in five American adults live with a mental illness.
Conner said she will lean into the Pitt community to accelerate her goals for the School of Social Work.
While many schools of social work focus primarily on clinical practice, Pitt’s program emphasizes both direct practice and community, organizational and social change. Conner said she also plans to expand collaborations across the university, drawing on expertise in other disciplines as technology continues to reshape the field.
The School of Social Work offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees that prepare students for careers in direct practice, clinical work and research. It is also home to the Center on Race and Social Problems, as well as programs focused on child welfare education and research and health care and human services management.
“We are an incredible hands-on and engaging school,” Conner said. “We want to engage in our community in a meaningful way.”
Pitt officials say Conner was selected as dean following a national search. Her research focuses on disparities in health and mental health care access, and advancing responsive behavioral health interventions.
“Throughout her career, Dr. Conner has exemplified collaborative leadership, academic excellence, and an unwavering commitment to community-building,” said Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor Joseph J. McCarthy in a statement. “I am confident that her vision, energy and dedication will guide the School of Social Work to even greater impact and distinction in the years ahead.”
Conner earned four degrees from the University of Pittsburgh: a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a Master of Social Work, a Master of Public Health with a specialization in minority health and health disparities, and a Ph.D. in social work.
She began her academic career at the University of South Florida and returned to Pitt as associate dean in 2023.
“Pittsburgh feels like home to me,” Conner said. “To be given an opportunity to lead one of the top schools of social work in the nation, at a critical time in our nation’s history, I’m excited and honored.
“Having this role as dean is important to me, but it’s just as important to be a member of the community. I want to see the school of social work as a partnership, as a resource for collaboration, conversation and support.”