About SWORPS
About SWORPS
Our MISSION
We build partnerships that leverage applied research, technology, and human connection to improve lives in Tennessee and beyond.
Our VISION
Thriving communities with equitable outcomes for all.
Our VALUES
Our History
In 1975, the Office of Continuing Social Work Education (OCSWE) was established within the UT College of Social Work to provide specialized professional education for practicing social workers and to provide research and evaluation services to mostly government-funded programs. In 1980, OCSWE was renamed the Social Work Office of Research and Public Service (SWORPS), and, over the last 43 years, our diverse, talented, deeply committed “SWORPees” have provided a wide array of services to public, private, and non-profit organizations both within Tennessee and nationwide. We invite you to explore our website and learn more about the impact we have made in the areas of program evaluation, applied research, software development, systems engineering, training and professional development, data analytics and visualization, and direct service.
Our Organization
College of Social Work
Office of Research
SWORPS
Heather Nielsen
Daryl Chansuthus
Tonya Mathes
Deidre Ford
Sissie Hadjiharalambous
Division of Field-Based Services
Jodi Sprayberry
Toni Lawal
Nate First
Heather Lamb
Dusty Cantrell
Debbie Abrams-Cohen
Our Business Office
In the business office, we receive and collect information, record it, arrange, and process it, so we can communicate it back to the divisions of SWORPS who go out and make it all happen.
Being a part of the business office in SWORPS is about more than just paperwork and spreadsheets. We are a part of the entire team that provides the great services of SWORPS. Sure, we process invoices, maintain data, prepare and review budgets, request budget revisions, oversee purchases, HR, payroll, travel, petty cash accounts, and assist in developing policy and procedures; but we do all this not only to ensure that UT and sponsor policies are followed and requirements are met, but also to ensure that SWORPees have the administrative support they need to provide the best possible service to our partners.
Brody Beeler
Tonya Mathes
Kelsi Robson
Cera Smith
Contact Us
Give us a call
(865) 974-6015
Pay us a visit
UT Conference Center
600 Henley Street, Suite 224
Knoxville, TN 37996
Send us a message
sworps@utk.edu