Graduate Student Leader Program Overview

The Graduate Student Leader (GSL) Program is designed to build community and connections between MSW students and strengthen the bond that students have with the School of Social Work by facilitating the exchange of accurate and timely information. Each MSW student in the program is assigned to a GSL, a fellow student who has received extensive training on leadership, communication, and information on the School and MSW program.

What do GSLs Do?

The GSLs serve as advocates and communication facilitators for School of Social Work (SSW) students, fielding questions about all of aspects of the undergraduate and graduate experience, including advising, practicum, registration, orientation, scholarships, deadlines, program policies, and more. The GSLs are able to provide quick and accurate answers to your questions.

Spring 2026 Graduate Student Leader Program Intern

Anne Matigi is an MSW student in the Community and Administrative Practice program at the University of Texas at Arlington. She is completing her practicum with the Office of Student & Academic Affairs, supporting the USL/GSL program through student engagement, coordination, and program support. Anne is interested in macro social work, administrative practice, and advocacy within higher education settings.

Meet Your Spring 2026 Graduate Student Leaders!

Supporting MSW Students Last Names A – D: Dolapo Alimson

Supporting MSW Students Last Names A – D: Tokenya Bell 

Tokenya Bell is a Master of Social Work candidate at the University of Texas at Arlington, currently in her foundation year with a micro practice focus and a specialty in children and families. Though she entered the program without a BSW, her transition into social work was deeply intentionally rooted in years of community advocacy, creative resource development, and a calling to uplift families through systems change and relational support.

As a remote intern with Hope 4 Recovery, Tokenya facilitates trauma-informed support groups via Zoom, helping individuals navigate healing with dignity and connection. She also serves on the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) for Royse City ISD, where she advocates for student wellness and family engagement. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, clarity, and a commitment to making everyday life more joyful and empowering.

Outside of academics, Tokenya is passionate about designing visual tools that help families build structured, motivating routines. She finds joy in mentoring peers, organizing home life with creativity, and celebrating small wins whether through community outreach, collaborative resource-building, or reflective dialogue. In her downtime, she enjoys journaling and curating uplifting spaces that inspire reflection, gratitude, and growth.

As a Graduate Student Leader, Tokenya brings warmth, intentionality, and a deep investment in both campus and community life. She’s excited to support fellow students and help shape a culture of encouragement, equity, and impact.


Supporting MSW Students Last Names E – K: Christine Gipson 

Christine Gipson is a Graduate Student Leader (GSL) in the School of Social Work, where she supports student engagement, peer mentorship, and academic success. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Law and Legal Studies, which informs her strong interest in advocacy, systems navigation, and social justice–oriented practice. Christine specialty is Mental Health and Substance Abuse.

As a GSL, Christine is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment by connecting students to campus resources, encouraging collaboration, and serving as a liaison between students and faculty. Her professional interests include case management, victim advocacy, and community-based support within social service and nonprofit settings.

Christine is passionate about leadership, service, and empowering future social workers to thrive academically and professionally.

Supporting MSW Students Last Names E – K: LaTeria Dorsey

Supporting MSW Students Last Names L – P: Brianna Jackson

Brianna Jackson is currently in her advanced year of the Master of Social Work program, with a concentration in Children and Families. Upon graduating, Brianna intends to become a Licensed Social Worker and begin providing mental health support services to adolescents and young adults. With a strong foundation in social service, Brianna has gained valuable experience working in a range of agencies and organizations, offering critical support to individuals and families in need.

In addition to her graduate studies, Brianna currently works in higher education, where she provides academic and holistic support services to diverse student populations. Her dedication to advocacy, equity, and student success reflects her broader passion for helping others thrive in both academic and personal environments.

Brianna is excited to continue her leadership journey as a Graduate Student Leader during the Fall 2025 semester, where she looks forward to empowering students and contributing to a supportive and positive academic experience.

Supporting MSW Students Last Names Q – Z: Adrian Garrett

My name is Adrian Michael Garrett, and I am a returning student and recent graduate of The University of Texas at Arlington, where I earned my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). I am a current Master of Social Work (MSW) student who is specializing in mental health and substance misuse. I also am a United States Navy Veteran, and I am obtaining the graduate certificate “Military Social Work Graduate Certificate” to clinically serve the veteran community. I currently work as a hospital-based licensed case manager/social worker, supporting individuals and families with complex medical, emotional, and psychosocial needs. This role has strengthened my passion for advocacy, client-centered care, and walking alongside people during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Outside of school and work, I have a wonderful husband, two teenage boys, and six very energetic dogs who keep my life busy and full. As a former Undergraduate Student Leader (USL) with the School of Social Work, I hope to bring that same level of energy, dedication, and approachability into my role as a Graduate Student Leader (GSL). Supporting and assisting other students is something I truly enjoy, and it is a passion I look forward to continuing as I help foster connection and success within our social work community.

Supporting MSW Students Last Names Q – Z: Irma Ramirez

My name is Irma Ramirez, and I am a second-year Master of Social Work (MSW) graduate student at the University of Texas at Arlington and a Lead Case Manager at The Salvation Army in Houston. 

My professional background includes work with a company contracted by the Office of Refugee Resettlement, where I supported the reunification of unaccompanied minors, conducted home studies, and provided post-release services to promote family stability and culturally responsive care. During my MSW field placement, I also gained clinical experience in a nonprofit setting, working with both children and adults to support therapeutic goals and strengthen my clinical skills.

After graduation, I plan to pursue a clinical fellowship and become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with the goal of working in hospital or nonprofit settings providing direct clinical care. My key achievements include being published twice through Alexander Jewish Family Service on mental health topics, serving as a graduate student leader since August 2025, and building experience across refugee services, behavioral health, nonprofit clinical practice, and shelter leadership.

Outside of academics, you can usually find me curled up with my Kindle, practicing Pilates, playing/watching tennis, or spending quality time with my family and my very spoiled dog.