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Brenda Sweeten, a clinical professor in UNT's Social Work department, director of Social Work field education and UNT Foster Care Liaison officer, has been honored with the prestigious UNT Foundation Community Engagement Award.

This award recognizes faculty members whose careers are distinguished by sustained efforts that foster university-community partnerships, address critical community issues through collaborative initiatives and generate intellectual contributions respected by peers both within and outside the academy. Collaborative partnerships are essential in supporting student success, as they bring together diverse resources, expertise and networks to help students navigate their academic journeys.    

“I am deeply honored to receive the UNT Foundation Community Engagement Award,” Sweeten expressed. “It’s a privilege to work in an environment where bridging the university and community is not only encouraged, but an integral part of our mission. Each opportunity to build collaborative partnerships that support student success allows me to combine my passion as a social worker and advocate with my role in academia, and for that, I am truly grateful.”

In 2012, alongside a group of remarkable foster care alumni, Sweeton co-founded Persevere UNTil Success Happens (PUSH), an initiative that continues to support students pursuing higher education, who have experienced the foster care system. Through PUSH, these students are provided with mentorship, resources and a sense of community—tools that empower them to overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

Sweeten’s dedication to student success and supporting underserved populations serves as a powerful example of how education and advocacy can intersect to create meaningful, lasting impacts. By fostering connections between faculty, staff, community organizations, and industry professionals, these partnerships provide students with a rich support system