School of Social Work Winter 2023 Commencement | December 17, 2023

The School of Social Work Winter Commencement for Master of Social Work students will be held in-person and livestreamed on the SSW website. A light reception will be held at the School of Social Work (1080 S. University Ave.) immediately following commencement.


Keynote Speaker Linh Song, MSW ‘04
Ann Arbor City Council Member, Ward 2

Linh Song has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 20 years, supporting child advocacy, public schools, anti-trafficking within international adoption, and tech startups. Born and raised in the Midwest by Vietnamese refugee parents, she is her family’s firstborn American and committed to addressing social, racial and economic inequities. She serves on Ann Arbor’s City Council, as co-chair for Michigan Reproductive Rights for All and as a board member for Jewish Family Services Ann Arbor, Michigan Municipal League Foundation and the Skillman Foundation. Song holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan.


Letter from the Dean

Dear Graduates,

Congratulations! We are thrilled to celebrate your hard work and dedication together with your friends, families and loved ones.

In pursuit of your MSW, you have gained the skills, knowledge and training to make a difference in the lives of others. You are effective, practiced facilitators and leaders who know how to take a stand, address injustice and engage the community. As you begin the next chapter of your lives, remember that education is a lifelong process. Keep in touch with your faculty and classmates and keep listening and learning from your clients and colleagues.

University of Michigan social work graduates have a reputation for their expertise, dedication and achievement. Today you join 17,000+ alumni who lead the field as policymakers, agency directors and foundation leaders, who improve lives as accomplished and effective social workers. We look forward to hearing how you apply your talents for the good of people and communities.

You have earned the term “the leaders and best.” On behalf of the Michigan Social Work community, I wish you every success as you reach out, raise hope and change society.

Go Blue,

Beth Angell
Dean and Professor of Social Work