The School of Social Work Engagement Office, led by Associate Dean Dr. Kevin Tan, includes Katie Shumway, LCSW, Senior Director of Engagement, Amy Frederick, MSW, Associate Director for Professional Development, and Hellen McDonald, LCSW, Associate Director for International Programs. This team embodies the School of Social Work’s commitment to engagement, extending beyond local communities to include connections with our alumni and practitioners through ongoing professional development and global outreach.

Dr. Kevin Tan, who has been at the School of Social Work since 2016, focuses his research and practice on supporting the well-being and academic success of children and youth, particularly those facing adversity. He has managed over $2.5 million in grants to develop and implement programs that promote positive youth development and improve student outcomes. Dr. Tan has been recognized for his contributions to public engagement with the 2023 University of Illinois Campus Distinguished Faculty Award for Public Engagement and the national 2021 Gary Shaffer Award for Academic Contributions to the Field of School Social Work. His work bridges research and practice, fostering meaningful collaborations with schools, educators, and community organizations to develop evidence-based solutions that enhance student success and well-being.

Katie Shumway, LCSW, has led the Community Learning Lab (CLL) since 2014, facilitating partnerships between local community organizations and university resources. Under her leadership, CLL has developed programs that address community-identified needs by connecting them with relevant academic courses and student projects. With an extensive background working with adolescents, addressing childhood obesity, supporting the aging population, and providing hospice care, Katie brings a deep understanding of social work practice across the lifespan. Her extensive experience has shaped her dedication to fostering collaboration among community partners, students, and university faculty and staff, creating sustainable partnerships that strengthen university engagement and community well-being.  

Amy Frederick, MSW, provides leadership in advancing lifelong learning opportunities for social work professionals and has been at the School of Social Work since 2010. In this role, she develops and implements continuing education events, workshops, and webinars, ensuring that practitioners stay informed on the latest research, best practices, and policy updates in the field. Amy oversees and supports all non-degree certificate programming for the school, coordinating specialized training that enhances professional competencies and expands career opportunities for social workers at various stages of their careers. Through her leadership, Amy strengthens the school’s commitment to professional development and community engagement, ensuring that alumni and practitioners have access to high-quality, evidence-based learning experiences and equipping social work professionals with the tools and knowledge to make a lasting impact in their communities.

Hellen McDonald, LCSW, leads global engagement initiatives for students and faculty. She has been at the School of Social Work since 2009, teaching in field education and developing international programming since 2011. She collaborates with universities and organizations worldwide to develop exchange programs, study abroad opportunities, and international research collaborations that deepen cross-cultural understanding and broaden global social work perspectives. Hellen designs programs that allow students to engage firsthand with global social work practices, policies, and community challenges. She facilitates international field placements and supports faculty-driven global research initiatives, fostering sustainable partnerships that extend the school’s research and influence in international social work education. Hellen strengthens the school’s commitment to global engagement by fostering the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to create lasting global impacts.