"LaTanya Tolan has been a great influence in regards to my professionalism as a social worker and clinical knowledge. She is able to bridge the understanding of theories and interventions in order to address and meet the needs of people who are not as open to viewing therapy as culturally appropriate. As her MSW student, I appreciated Professor Tolan because I was able to see someone that not only looked like me, but someone who was also knowledgeable and open to processing the learning experience, so I too could improve my clinical competency. I recall wanting to do a presentation on PTSD as a mental health condition that impacted people of color from a community aspect. The focus was on racial profiling and how Black and Brown people were more susceptible to PTSD from a community perspective. Professor Tolan pushed us and supported our team in broadening our horizon towards an understanding that PTSD was not solely a disorder associated with combat. Professor Tolan’s openness allowed our team/group to grow and think outside the box; and that is one of the key components of social work. I am so thankful that she is a part of the foundation of my life commitment.”

- Ayana Shepherd, MSW