USC Latina/o Social Work Caucus
University of Southern California
About USC Latina/o Social Work Caucus
Founded in the spring of 1999, the USC Latina/o Social Work Caucus emerged from a commitment by Latino alumni to address critical issues affecting Latino communities in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California. What began as the Latino Alumni Community Advisory Committee has evolved into a dynamic student organization that honors its roots while looking toward the future. The caucus was originally established to advise school leadership on curriculum, student support, and faculty representation—efforts that culminated in creating the Margarita Mendez-Juan Ramos Endowed Fund through collective fundraising and community contributions.
Today, the organization serves as a bridge connecting current Latino students at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work with experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the field. The caucus fosters a supportive community where students can develop their identities as culturally competent social workers while contributing to meaningful change in Los Angeles. Members engage in peer mentoring, networking, and collaborative projects that strengthen both individual growth and collective impact.
The mission of the caucus centers on enhancing social work education quality while preparing Latino students for professional practice through advocacy, community service, and curriculum development. The organization recognizes that social work education must reflect the cultural realities and lived experiences of the communities it serves. By maintaining strong connections between students, alumni, faculty, and community partners, the USC Latina/o Social Work Caucus continues its legacy of advancing social justice and improving service delivery practices for Latino communities throughout Southern California.