Celebrating 90 years
Since 1934, the UB School of Social Work has been advancing the dignity and worth of humankind.
Through our research, academics and service, we’ve challenged injustice, enhanced social work practice and trained countless social workers who’ve made a positive difference. In this commemorative issue of Mosaics, we invite you to read stories of alumni through the years — and explore how we’re celebrating our 90th anniversary through service.
Key moments in our history
1924
Niles Carpenter joins UB's Sociology Department and is tasked with forming a school for social work. Within two years, UB begins offering evening classes in social work.
Niles Carpenter, first dean of the UB School of Social Work
1934
The American Association of Schools of Social Work approves our first certificate program, marking the beginning of what we now know as the UB School of Social Work.
1936
With the launch of our first master’s degree in social services, UB formally establishes the School of Social Work as a separate academic unit, with Carpenter as dean.
First social work classes held in Townsend Hall.
1945
After World War II, the GI Bill sends enrollment soaring and boosts the local social work field.
1960s
Vietnam War protests ignite on campus, with School of Social Work students and faculty on the front lines.
Faculty and staff, 1961
1974
Construction ends on Baldy Hall, our current home on North Campus.
Baldy Hall, North Campus
1994
The school launches our PhD in Social Welfare program.
2009
The school officially adopts trauma-informed and human rights perspectives in all aspects of our education and work.
Watch a video highlighting our trauma-informed human rights perspective [3:26 min]
2013
Our MSW program welcomes its first all-online cohort, empowering more students to access a UB education.
2019
The school admits the first cohort for our Doctor of Social Work program, which remains one of only 40 DSW programs nationwide.
First cohort of DSW students