Dr. Alicia Dawson
Professor of Professional Practice
Dr. Alicia Dawson, MSSW, DSW
Dr. Alicia Dawson is a Professor of Professional Practice in the BSW program. She is a double alum from the University of Louisville's Kent School of Social Work, earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees in social work. While pursuing her master's degree, Dr. Dawson served as the vice president for the Kent School Student Association (KSSA). Dr. Dawson has significant experience as a mental health therapist, with a focus on working with children who have experienced trauma or abuse. Additionally, Dr. Dawson has professional experience working with youth in residential settings, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and has instructed master's level social work students as an adjunct professor.
Dr. Dawson has a Doctorate in Social Work, with a focus on Social Work Education. Dr. Dawson's doctoral research focused on improving social work curriculums to better develop social workers who will provide mental health services for Black youth. Key findings of her research included eliminating oppressive and institutionalized racism. Dr. Dawson’s personal mission is to advocate for and support frameworks, curriculums and policies that address both racial and mental health inequities.
Dr. Dawson's current research interests include critical race theory, school-based health centers, racial equality, mental health, trauma, Black youth, Anti-racist curriculums, and social work education.