Release Date: July 17, 2025
PITTSBURGH, PA – Carlow University has announced the launch of its new College of Education and Social Work, a bold restructuring that unites two of its most value–driven disciplines under one academic home. The creation of the college reflects Carlow’s enduring commitment to serving the needs of children, families, and communities through seeing and supporting the whole student.
The new college brings together Carlow’s nationally recognized programs in social work and education—which grant certificates, bachelors and masters degrees, doctorates and more—along with Carlow’s Campus Laboratory School (CLS) and Early Learning Center (ELC). These offerings now live within a single, integrated ecosystem dedicated to preparing ethically minded professionals dedicated to building a continuum of care for learners, families, and communities.
“By uniting education and social work under one academic home, we are creating the conditions for collaboration between faculty who share a mission, students who share a calling, and community partners who rely on both,” said Dr. Kathy Humphrey, president of Carlow. “This new college gives clarity and purpose to the values that already define us—and builds a stronger foundation for those we serve.”
In conjunction with the launch, Dr. Keely Baronak has been named the founding Dean of the College of Education and Social Work. A proven academic leader and champion for access and innovation, Dr. Baronak brings deep experience in program development, grant acquisition, and cross-sector collaboration.
“For so many of our students, education or social work isn’t just their major. It’s a calling,” said Dr. Baronak, who, since joining Carlow has led the creation of seven new education programs and worked closely with colleagues to secure funding for the Early Childhood Apprenticeship Program, the largest grant ever received by Carlow University. “Here, we shape leaders who understand the power of compassion and advocacy.”
The College of Education and Social Work formalizes the longstanding collaboration between faculty in both disciplines, who share a student-centered, justice-oriented approach to professional preparation. Social work and education students at Carlow learn not only the theory and practice of their professions, but also the interpersonal, ethical, and leadership skills needed to serve every community with dignity and care.
Kathryn Bonach, chair of the Social Work Department, says the merging of departments reflects the heart of what draws so many students to her field. “Students who choose social work are often motivated, above anything else, by a sense of purpose,” she said. “They want to stand beside those who are navigating hardship and help create pathways forward. Educators also share this conviction.”
The new college will also support deeper collaboration with community organizations, school districts, nonprofit partners, and government agencies—ensuring that graduates are both career ready and equipped to make meaningful change.
Carlow University’s College of Education and Social Work is now live, with a dedicated online platform featuring faculty spotlights, student stories, and key program information. To learn more, visit www.carlow.edu/education-social-work/.
About Carlow University
Carlow is a private, co-educational, Catholic university located at the hub of Pittsburgh’s most cutting-edge industries. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1929, Carlow’s curricula and partnerships reflect its strong commitment to forward-thinking leadership and impactful service to the community.
At Carlow University, we strive to create an experience that is not only life-changing, but world-changing. Carlow graduates are prepared to be pioneers in workforce development, healthcare, education, business, the arts, and more. They are part of a nearly one-hundred-year tradition of ethical leaders with the empathy and spirit to create meaningful societal change. Rooted in unity and led by compassion, we are redefining what a leader looks like —and it looks like a Carlow graduate.
Contact
Carlow University
John Cardone, VP of Marketing and Communications
412-578-6100
jvcardone@carlow.edu