Weaver recognized among the 100 most impactful global contributors to social work publications

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Hilary N. Weaver, DSW, professor emeritus in the University at Buffalo School of Social Work, has been named one of the 100 most influential contributors to social work research worldwide, according to the journal Research on Social Work Practice. The accolade recognizes Weaver's academic career, which has been marked by groundbreaking research and dedicated advocacy for marginalized communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples and refugees.

Weaver’s recognition was announced in an updated list of the most impactful global contributors to social work discourse. Weaver published 67 papers between 1992-2023, with 804 citations in other scholarly works.

Weaver spent 28 years at the UB School of Social Work and held roles as associate dean for academic affairs, co-director of the Immigrant and Refugee Institute, associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion, and professor, retiring in 2022.

A Lakota woman, Weaver has presented her work at such platforms as the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, underscoring her commitment to advancing Indigenous rights and social justice globally. In acknowledgment of her outstanding contributions to promoting American Indian representation in social work education, Weaver was honored with the prestigious American Indian Elder Award in 2017.

In 2020, she was named a National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Pioneer. The program honors members of the social work profession who have contributed to the evolution and enrichment of the profession.

Currently, she serves as chair for the Council on Social Work Education's board of directors, and is the inaugural global indigenous commissioner for the International Federation of Social Workers.