Kiva Harper is a proud University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work alumna and now a Professor of Practice. She has built a career that spans clinical practice, education, leadership and advocacy. Through her work as a therapist, educator, speaker and mentor, Kiva continues to embody the profession's core values while inspiring others to create meaningful change in their communities.
Kiva Harper poses for a photo. (Courtesy Photo)
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in social work?
A: I actually discovered social work by accident. I enrolled in a social work course as an elective and immediately fell in love with the profession. That class led me to an internship at the Dallas County District Attorney's Office, where I took affidavits for Protective Orders. While I found the work meaningful, I realized I wanted to support people beyond moments of crisis. I wanted to help them heal and build healthier lives over time through therapy. As I learned more about the profession, I recognized that social work offered the perfect path to becoming a therapist while also aligning with my personal values of service, social justice, and advocacy.
Q: How did your experience at the UTA School of Social Work shape your professional path?
A: UTA has always been a place where I have felt supported and encouraged to grow. It has been my home as a student, an adjunct instructor, and now as a Professor of Practice. Along the way, I have built lifelong personal and professional relationships that continue to shape my career. Many of the opportunities I've been fortunate to receive, including speaking engagements, leadership roles, and consulting opportunities have come through referrals and connections with fellow alumni, faculty, and staff. UTA didn't just prepare me academically; it gave me a community that continues to invest in my success.
Q: What is one project, initiative, or accomplishment you're especially proud of?
A: Being featured in Essence magazine is one of the accomplishments I treasure most. Essence has long been an iconic publication celebrating Black women, and I grew up watching my mother, aunt, and grandmother read every issue. Seeing my own work published in a magazine that meant so much to the women who shaped me was incredibly meaningful. I know they would have been immensely proud. Another career highlight was delivering a TEDx talk, which gave me the opportunity to share ideas I am deeply passionate about with a broader audience. Both experiences reminded me of the power of storytelling to educate, inspire, and create change.
Q: What are some of the challenges you've faced in your work, and how have you navigated them?
A: The greatest challenges in my career have not been the work itself, but navigating systems that often create barriers for the vulnerable people we serve. Throughout my career, I have worked to advocate for clients within systems that were not always designed to meet their needs. I have also experienced instances of racial bias in leadership within a few organizations. Those experiences were difficult, but they strengthened my commitment to advocacy, equity, and creating more inclusive environments for both clients and professionals. They reinforced my belief that social workers must not only support individuals but also work to improve the systems that impact their lives.
Q: Who or what has been a major influence or source of support in your career?
A: One of my greatest influences has been Ida B. Wells. Her unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and advocacy in the face of tremendous adversity continues to inspire me. She understood that meaningful change requires both courage and persistence, and those are qualities I strive to bring to my work every day. As a social worker, educator, and leader, I believe our responsibility extends beyond helping individuals and we must also challenge systems that create inequity and advocate for lasting change. Ida B. Wells' legacy reminds me that our voices matter and that speaking up on behalf of others is one of the most powerful ways we can serve.
I have also been incredibly fortunate to have many mentors, colleagues, friends, and leaders who have poured into me throughout my career. Their encouragement, guidance, and belief in my potential have challenged me to grow, embrace new opportunities, and become the professional I am today. I am deeply grateful for the people who have invested in me, and I hope to honor their influence by doing the same for others. There are so many I could name but I don’t want to miss anyone.
Q: What advice would you share with current social work students or recent graduates?
A: Never underestimate the value of relationships. Your classmates, professors, supervisors, and field instructors may become lifelong colleagues, mentors, collaborators, and friends. Stay curious, remain teachable, and don't be afraid to pursue opportunities that stretch you beyond your comfort zone.
Just as importantly, don't be afraid to be your authentic self. The profession needs your unique perspective, experiences, and voice. Representation matters. When people see social workers and leaders who reflect diverse identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences, it reminds them that they belong and that their stories matter too. You don't have to change who you are to be successful, often your authenticity is your greatest strength.
Social work offers far more career paths than many people realize. Whether your passion is clinical practice, leadership, education, policy, advocacy, or organizational development, there is space for you to make an impact. Finally, take care of yourself. You cannot sustainably pour into others if you neglect your own well-being. Caring for yourself isn't separate from being a good social worker, it's part of the work.
Q: How do you stay connected to the values and mission of social work in your everyday life?
A: Staying connected to the profession is an intentional part of my life. I remain actively involved with professional organizations such as NASW, regularly attend and present at conferences, and stay engaged with colleagues through LinkedIn and other professional networks. I also continue to mentor students, supervise developing clinicians, and teach future social workers. These experiences keep me grounded in the profession's values while reminding me that learning and growth are lifelong commitments.