Umeka Franklin

Umeka Franklin serves as an Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Children, Youth and Families at the University of Southern California's School of Social Work, where she also directs the Bachelor of Social Work Program and Undergraduate Education. Her clinical social work practice centers on vulnerable populations including children, families, military veterans, and aging adults within integrated behavioral health systems.

Her educational background includes:

• EdD from the University of Southern California
• MSW from California State University Los Angeles (2002)
• BA (1997)

Dr. Franklin's research and practice expertise spans traumatic events, medical social work domains including nephrology and psychiatric care, and specialized social work education. Her clinical focus integrates behavioral health interventions with military veteran support systems and gerontological social work, addressing complex trauma through interdisciplinary frameworks. Industry experience encompasses mental health care delivery, health and wellness education programs, and healthcare service systems improvement.

Professional contributions emphasize practical application in social work education, with particular attention to military clinical experience and virtual practicum methodologies developed during her tenure at USC.