KENNESAW, Ga. | May 22, 2025

First Cohort of DOE Fellows Completes Transformative Program

Kennesaw State University's School-Based Behavioral Health Initiative is proud to announce the successful completion of its first cohort of Department of Education (DOE) Fellowship students. This milestone marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing need for mental health professionals in Georgia's underserved school districts.

 The inaugural class includes 12 Fellows from Kennesaw State University and 4 Fellows from our valued partnership with Georgia State University. Together, these 16 graduate-level social work students have spent the past two years immersed in a rigorous academic and field-based program to prepare them for impactful careers in school-based mental health. They have taken on the challenge of serving in rural and high-need communities and are leaving with the skills, experience, and compassion to make a lasting difference.

"I am incredibly proud of our first cohort of DOE School-Based Mental Health Fellows, our 'changemakers.' These 16 dedicated individuals have completed a rigorous two-year specialized field of study, serving in rural and underserved school districts across Georgia. I am excited and confident about their lasting impact on students, families, and communities throughout our state. Their work represents hope, healing, and the promise of a brighter future for all," said Dr. Lateshia Woodley, DOE Grant Director.

Bridging the Gap in Youth Mental Health 

Launched through a collaboration between KSU's Wellstar College of Health and Human Services and the Bagwell College of Education, the fellowship program provides Master of Social Work (MSW) students with hands-on clinical training in schools across rural and underserved areas in Georgia. Fellows commit to two years of intensive coursework and internship experience in communities where youth mental health services are often limited or nonexistent.

"Working with these students has been a wonderful experience for me. I am truly proud of them and know that they will do great things in the field of social work!" –Lorraine Stokes, LSCW.

The partnership with Georgia State University has expanded the program's reach, uniting future mental health professionals across campuses with a shared mission: to improve the lives of children and families through accessible, culturally responsive care.

A Legacy Begins 

This first class of DOE Fellows represents a new generation of changemakers. Many graduates have already accepted positions in school systems across the state, poised to lead the charge in building more resilient, supportive educational environments.

 "The KSU faculty team is immensely proud to announce the graduation of 16 Master of Social Work (MSW) students who are set to impact rural and underserved communities significantly," said Dr. Monica Nandan, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Social Impacts. "These graduates have demonstrated exceptional perseverance, tenacity, and dedication throughout their studies, embodying the core values of our MSW program. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to these future change makers as they embark on the next phase of their careers." 

As they embark on the next chapter of their professional journeys, these Fellows' accomplishments will continue to echo through classrooms, counseling offices, and communities. Their work is just beginning, but their impact is already being felt.

Written by Fatma Diouf

Photo by Dedra Waindi