Experience, Affiliations, Awards, and Honors
Dr. Alice Kay Locklear's Involvement:
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
- Region V Representative on the NASW Board of Directors, contributing to national policy discussions and advancing equity and inclusion in the social work profession.
- University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP)
- Faculty member and Assistant Department Chair in the Social Work Department, dedicated to academic excellence and curriculum innovation.
- Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
- Active member, integrating her cultural heritage into her professional and academic work to advocate for Indigenous communities.
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Participant in initiatives to enhance educational standards and promote cultural competence in social work education.
- State and Regional Social Work Organizations
- Regular contributor to conferences, panels, and advocacy efforts at the local and state levels, focusing on improving social work practices and policies.
An Important Message on Dr. Locklear's Expertise
Dr. Locklear's Academic Roles
Dr. Alice Kay Locklear has built an extraordinary academic career rooted in her passion for education, cultural advocacy, and social work innovation. She has been a dedicated educator and leader at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, where her work has shaped the future of social work through visionary teaching and impactful leadership.
As Professor of Social Work, Dr. Locklear has mentored countless students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of modern social work -- and life! Her teaching emphasizes the importance of cultural competence, trauma-informed care, and ethical practice, ensuring that her students are not only well-prepared professionals but also empathetic and socially conscious leaders. Her classroom serves as a transformative space where theory meets practice, empowering students to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
In her role as Assistant Department Chair, Dr. Locklear has spearheaded numerous initiatives to enhance the department's academic offerings. She has played a pivotal role in curriculum development, ensuring that the program remains responsive to the evolving needs of diverse communities. Her leadership fosters collaboration among faculty, encourages innovation, and inspires excellence at every level of the department.
As the first Native American woman in the Social Work Department to earn a Ph.D., Dr. Locklear has broken barriers and paved the way for greater representation and inclusion within academia. She is a proud member of the Lumbee Tribe, and her work consistently uplifts Indigenous perspectives, integrating cultural heritage into social work education in groundbreaking ways. This milestone reflects her trailblazing efforts to amplify underrepresented voices and inspire students from all walks of life to pursue their highest potential.
Dr. Locklear's contributions extend beyond the university, influencing the broader social work profession. Her leadership, advocacy, and academic excellence have earned her numerous accolades and the respect of peers and colleagues nationwide. Through her academic roles, Dr. Locklear continues to leave a lasting legacy, demonstrating that education is not only a tool for personal advancement but also a powerful force for societal change.
