UA students noted for participation in Black Belt Internship Initiative

Two students from the University of Alabama (UA) School of Social Work were highlighted for their participation in the Black Belt Internship Initiative that assists citizens in Selma and Dallas County. 

Swantrese Waver-Johnson and Keely Campbell are two social work students who worked with Judge Vernetta Perkins on coalition-building efforts for the community. 

They have also worked with the Dallas County Juvenile Probation Office assisting with caseload management and attended court proceedings to work with youths and families in the system. 

“The Black Belt Internship Initiative is unique in that our students do complete their practicum requirement but they’re also in an epicenter of what’s going on within the community,” said Dr. Schnavia Hatcher, dean of the School of Social Work.

An announcement from UA said that the initiative was launched in 2023 to address "systemic issues" in the Black Belt, which was considered and underserved area. 

“I chose to do the Black Belt initiative for my placement because I’m really interested in community work and community building," said Campbell. "I think that it’s just a beautiful process to come into a community and walk alongside them to make change and I’ve really enjoyed getting to do that through this experience.”

The announcement added that there are plans to expand the Black Belt initiative's reach in the future. 

“I believe that if everyone comes together on one accord, then change can happen,” said Dr. Courtney Chapman Thomas, the School of Social Work’s director of experiential programs and community partnerships