Umeka Franklin

UMEKA FRANKLIN began her career as an adjunct field faculty lecturer teaching integrative seminars as well as courses in military clinical experience and Virtual Field Practicum. She also served as a field liaison at the Virtual Academic Center. She is currently a clinical assistant professor in field education in the Department of Children, Youth and Families.

A licensed clinical social worker, she has worked across the lifespan providing services to various populations. She served in a leadership role as a social work coordinator working with military veterans for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. After earning a Veterans Health Administration Mentor Certification, Franklin mentored and supported employees and staff at the VA. She has also worked as a psychiatric social worker for the Los Angeles Unified School District, providing direct clinical services to individuals, families and groups. In addition, she has expertise as a medical social worker with an emphasis on nephrology, as well as working with children and families who have experienced traumatic events.

Franklin received a bachelor’s degree in social work and a gerontology certificate from California State University, Los Angeles. She received her master’s degree in social work and a Pupil Personnel Services credential from USC. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education at the USC Rossier School of Education.