The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work has launched its Dean’s Advisory Council, a new initiative that will serve as a strategic resource to the dean and the school’s leadership team.
Composed of distinguished alumni, community leaders and professionals, the council is designed to offer expertise, guidance and connections that enhance the School of Social Work’s impact while supporting its mission and strategic priorities.
“The launch of the Dean’s Advisory Council is an important step in strengthening the School of Social Work’s connection to leaders and partners who care deeply about our mission,” said Christian Wommack, director of development at the School of Social Work. “This council creates a space for thoughtful dialogue, shared expertise and strategic guidance that will help us advance the school’s priorities and long-term impact.”
UTA School of Social Work Deans Advisory Council Members, Catheleen Jordan, Professor Emerita at The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work (Left), Raul Gonzalez, Deputy Mayor Pro Tempore and Arlington City Council District 2 Representative (Center Left), Madeline McClure, Founder and CEO Emeritus of TexProtects (Center Right) and Wayne Carson, Chief Executive Officer of ACH Child and Family Services (Right) pose for a photo. (Photo by Jaelon Jackson)
According to the council’s overview, the Dean’s Advisory Council provides essential insights and expertise to help ensure the school continues to meet the needs of the profession, its students and the communities it serves.
The council’s primary functions include offering strategic advising for initiatives and programs, supporting fundraising leadership and strengthening engagement with alumni, community partners and professional organizations.
Members will also act as ambassadors for the School of Social Work, sharing their expertise and networks to support academic programming, community partnerships and philanthropic initiatives.
Advisory council members do not hold trustee responsibilities but play an instrumental role in shaping the school’s strategy and operations through guidance and collaboration with leadership.
Members are expected to provide strategic recommendations to the dean and leadership team, participate in quarterly meetings and engage with School of Social Work and UT Arlington events as their schedules permit.
The council brings together leaders with experience in social work, nonprofit leadership, public policy and related fields, creating a collaborative space for informed dialogue and long-term strategic guidance.
“A strong advisory council ensures that the School of Social Work remains responsive, forward-thinking and deeply connected to the evolving needs of our communities,” said Dr. Holli Slater, associate dean for strategic initiatives at the UTA School of Social Work. “By bringing experienced leaders to the table, we are strengthening our ability to innovate, expand opportunity for our students and amplify the school’s impact across North Texas and beyond.”
Dr. Kirk Foster, Dean of the UTA School of Social Work, speaks with Raul Gonzales, Deputy Mayor Pro Tempore and Arlington City Council District 2 Representative, during a Deans Advisory Council Meeting. (Photo by Jaelon Jackson)
Through their collective expertise, advocacy and engagement, the Dean’s Advisory Council will help strengthen partnerships and support the continued growth and impact of the School of Social Work.
Members of the UTA School of Social Work Deans Advisory Council Include:
Wayne Carson,Chief Executive Officer of ACH Child and Family Services
Raul Gonzalez, Deputy Mayor Pro Tempore and represents District 2 on the Arlington City Council
Brad Hunstable, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Linear Labs
Catheleen Jordan, Professor Emerita at The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work
Carol Klocek, Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Transforming Lives in Fort Worth
Aaron Lundberg, President and CEO of Praesidium
Madeline McClure, Founder and CEO Emeritus of TexProtects
Tiffany Tate, Chief Executive Officer of The Family Place
For more information on members of the UTA School of Social Work Deans Advisory Council, please visit our website.