In addition to her roles as graduate director and associate teaching professor in the School of Social Work, Jennifer C. Genovese, Ph.D., is a New York State licensed certified social worker who has served the Syracuse community and worked in private practice as a psychotherapist for over 40 years.
In appreciation of Genovese’s contributions to the field of social work, an anonymous donor made a historic gift of $300,000 to the School of Social Work to create the Genovese Scholars Program designed to attract and support exceptional residential master of social work (M.S.W.) students.
The $300,000 gift for this year will be divided among multiple high-achieving students, says School of Social Work Chair and Professor Carrie Jefferson Smith.
“The Genovese Scholars Program represents a transformative opportunity for high-achieving individuals to pursue their academic and professional aspirations in social work, regardless of their financial situation,” Smith says. “The program will seek candidates who exemplify academic excellence, human service experience and a deep passion for social work.”
Jennifer C. Genovese
The School of Social Work was founded in 1955 and opened in 1956 after the University received a major grant from the Rosamond Gifford Charitable Corporation. In 2024, the School of Social Work was ranked by U.S. News and World Report as among the “Best Schools of Social Work” in the country, and its national profile will continue to rise with the prestigious scholars program created by the $300,000 gift.
The benefits to students of the Genovese Scholars Program include a substantial scholarship covering a significant portion of tuition throughout the M.S.W. program; membership in a distinguished cohort of scholars, offering networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities; and individualized guidance from dedicated Genovese Scholar advisors.
As part of the program, Genovese Scholars will engage in at least one community service activity each semester, with advisors helping to identify opportunities aligned with their interests and goals.
“This extraordinary generosity has given us the ability to recruit and support top-tier students who are dedicated to becoming agents of change during a critical time of need,” Smith says. “We are confident that the future social workers nurtured through this program will embody the values of compassion, resilience and leadership, making a meaningful difference in countless lives.”
M.S.W. candidates can express their interest in participating in the program through an online form available on the Genovese Scholars Program webpage.
Here are more details about the Genovese Scholars Program:
Eligibility: The Genovese Scholars Program is open to all residential M.S.W. applicants pursuing either the traditional or advanced standing tracks. Candidates must apply through the standard Syracuse School of Social Work admissions process and express their interest in the Genovese Scholars Program through the online form or by contacting Adrienne Renfroe, LMSW, Coordinator of Graduate Admissions, Recruitment, and Student Services, School of Social Work, Office of Admissions, 268 White Hall, Syracuse, NY 13244, or email alrenfro@syr.edu.
Ideal Candidate Profile: The admissions committee seeks candidates who embody the following qualities:
▪ Academic Excellence: Demonstrated by a strong undergraduate GPA.
▪ Human Service Experience: Proven commitment to social work or related fields through internships, volunteer work, or professional experience.
▪ Passion for Social Work: Evident through a compelling personal statement highlighting the applicant’s dedication to the field.
▪ Strong Recommendations: Letters from mentors, supervisors, or educators attesting to the applicant’s character and potential.
Selection Process: Genovese Scholars are selected through the standard admissions committee process, ensuring a fair and comprehensive evaluation of all applicants. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most qualified and committed candidates are chosen.
Program Requirements: To maintain their status in the program, Genovese Scholars must:
▪ Participate in at least one community service activity per semester. The Genovese Scholar advisor will assist in identifying suitable opportunities that align with the scholar’s interests and goals.
▪ Maintain a high level of academic performance and uphold the values of the social work profession.
Contact Information: For more information about the Genovese Scholars Program and application details, contact Adrienne Renfroe, LMSW, Coordinator of Graduate Admissions, Recruitment, and Student Services, School of Social Work, Office of Admissions 268 White Hall, Syracuse, NY 13244, or email alrenfro@syr.edu.
About the Genovese Scholars Program
The Genovese Scholars Program represents a significant investment in the next generation of social work leaders. By fostering academic excellence, community engagement, and professional development, the program aligns with the Syracuse University School of Social Work’s mission to prepare innovative, compassionate, and skilled social workers dedicated to serving diverse communities.
