THE VISION
THE VOICE
Meet the GCSW Deans
The Graduate College of Social Work (GCSW) is proud to welcome Dr. Quenette Walton as the new Associate Dean for Doctoral Education. Dr. Walton is stepping into her role during a pivotal time, bringing with her not only years of expertise as a licensed clinical social worker but also a newly earned tenure as an Associate Professor. Her journey to this point is marked by passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the success of her students.
In her new role, Dr. Walton is focused on key areas like retention, recruitment, and program management. But for her, the most exciting part is the students. "Their success and legacy are vitally important to the GCSW," Dr. Walton shares. She emphasizes the importance of pouring into students so that they, in turn, can give back once they become alumni, mentoring and supporting the next generation.
Social work, as Dr. Walton describes, is not just a career but something that naturally found her. With a diverse background in school social work, child welfare, and community-based mental health, she realized early on that this field was the perfect fit for her skills and passion. "When I tried it on with my master's, it felt right, even more so with the PhD," she explains. This blend of research and practice aligns deeply with her identity and professional purpose.
As Dr. Walton looks to the future of doctoral education at GCSW, she sees a time ripe with opportunity. "We're rebuilding, we are reimagining, we're regrouping," she says, noting that social work is at a critical juncture in both the country and the profession. She is excited about the unique chance GCSW students have to redefine the future of social work, both locally and nationally.
“What we pour into them [current students] can be given back once they are alums. They can mentor, serve as support systems for our new students, and talk about their experiences coming into this space."
Reflecting on her most memorable moments at the GCSW, Dr. Walton points to two pivotal events: the birth of her daughter, which taught her the importance of setting boundaries, and the achievement of tenure, a significant milestone that was shaped by the support of many within and outside the college. These experiences have helped shape her perspective as an educator and leader, emphasizing the importance of presence, balance, and community.
Dr. Walton’s mission as both a social worker and an Associate Dean is centered on increasing access and resources for students. She believes that many who are qualified to pursue a PhD may not know how to get there, and she is dedicated to helping them find their path. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of providing financial resources and mentorship to support students' success. “Access and resources are critical,” she explains, as they are essential for students to thrive in their academic and professional journeys.
When asked about her heroes in social work, Dr. Walton credits her grandmother and mother, who laid the foundation for her values and the way she approaches her work. "I stand on their shoulders," she says with deep reverence, recognizing the history and legacy that informs her leadership.
When asked what she would say to prospective students, Dr. Quenette Walton says, with a warm smile, “Come here. There’s opportunity.”
With her vision, passion for student success, and commitment to access and equity, Dr. Walton is set to lead the next generation of doctoral students at GCSW into a bright and transformative future. She believes that by reimagining the future together and working collectively, meaningful change can happen—both within the GCSW and in society at large.
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