School of Behavioral Health Dean Beverly Buckles honored as a National Social Work Pioneer

Beverly Buckles, DSW, dean of the Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health and vice president of Behavioral Education for Loma Linda University Health, has been recognized by the National Association of Social Workers Foundation (NASWF) as one of 10 influential leaders inducted into the 2026 class of Social Work Pioneers.

Being designated as an NASW Social Work Pioneer is one of the profession's highest and most distinguished honors. It recognizes individuals whose dedication, innovation, and leadership have left a significant, lasting impact on professional social work in the United States. This national recognition follows Buckles' recent induction into the California Social Work Hall of Distinction, the organization that nominated her for the national award.

Four Decades of Global and Academic Leadership

At the awards presentation, NASW recognized Buckles for being at the forefront of advancing social work education and practice for more than four decades. Throughout her distinguished career, she has developed signature academic programs at Loma Linda University and secured millions of dollars to support social work education, behavioral health workforce development, interdisciplinary initiatives, and international crisis response efforts.

A central highlight of the award presentation was Buckles' leadership in founding and continuing to direct the Loma Linda University International Behavioral Health Trauma Team (LLUIBHTT). Established in 1995, the LLUIBHTT represents an unparalleled, university-supported contribution to international service. The team integrates trauma- and resiliency-informed care with education and global service, having deployed to more than 100 active and post-crisis situations in over 65 countries. These efforts have provided direct services and crisis-response training to more than 13,000 survivors, frontline responders, humanitarian workers, and government and United Nations personnel.

Through her forward-thinking leadership, Buckles has consistently demonstrated a commitment to linking education and scholarship with real-world global service, preparing the next generation of social workers to lead in times of crisis and change.

A Legacy of Transformation

"For more than three decades, we have recognized individuals whose work has not only advanced the profession, but has opened doors, broken barriers, and redefined what is possible in social work," said NASW CEO Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C. "This year's pioneers embody that spirit of transformation. Their impact reaches far beyond today, inspiring the next generation to lead with courage, compassion, and purpose."

With this distinction, Buckles' professional contributions - underpinned by the mission and support of Loma Linda University - will permanently stand as part of the official historical record and formative legacy of professional social work in the United States.

Buckles and her fellow honorees were formally inducted on June 10, 2026, at the NASW Social Work Pioneers Reception during the NASW National Conference in Washington, D.C.