Recent News and Updates
| March 12, 2026 Apply to be a Volunteer Abstract Reviewer for the 2027 SSWR Conference Now! March 2, 2026 |
Tentative 2027 Timeline (subject to change)
- Feb 18, 2026: CFP Disseminated
- Mar 2, 2026: CFP Online Submission Opens
- Apr 15, 2026: CFP Online Submission Closes
- May-Jul 2026: Abstract Multi-Stage Review Process (handled by cluster chairs and volunteer peer reviewers)
- Aug 15, 2026: Abstract Decision-Making Process (handled by cluster chairs)
- Sep 8, 2026: Abstract Status Notifications to Presenting Authors, Presenters/Speakers, Organizers, and Discussants
- Oct 2026: Presentation Schedule Notifications to Presenting Authors, Presenters/Speakers, Organizers, Discussants, and Moderators
- Nov 2026: Orientation and Q&A Webinar for Flash Talk and Grouped Paper Session Presenters and Moderators
Overview of the SSWR 2027 Annual Conference
This year’s theme is “Social Work Research at the Service of Democracy: Advancing Rigorous Inquiry for the Common Good.” Social work research is a catalyst for building a more just, inclusive, and vibrant democracy for the common good, where every person participates equitably and communities thrive. At a moment when our society is being reshaped, it offers pathways of understanding that bring people together and ensure that no one is left behind. By grounding policies and practices in research evidence and compassion, our work creates bridges across difference and nurtures communities where equity and dignity can flourish. Applied research becomes not just a tool of accountability, but a source of innovation and hope—strengthening the bonds that connect us all. With a steadfast commitment to inclusive and rigorous inquiry, we help imagine and realize a future where democratic principles are not only protected but fully alive, and where every voice contributes to the flourishing of society.
The SSWR Annual Conference offers a scientific program that reflects a broad range of research interests. From workshops on the latest quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to symposia featuring studies in child welfare, aging, mental health, welfare reform, substance abuse, and HIV/AIDS. Over 500 symposia, workshop, roundtable, flash talks, paper and poster presentations. Research methods workshops are designed to enhance methods expertise and grant-writing skills and special sessions on research priorities and capacity building that target cutting-edge topics vital to contemporary social work research. Pre-conference programs and a networking reception, especially for doctoral students.
The Thursday plenary session and invited symposia are developed by the Vice President/Conference Chair. The Thursday morning workshop sessions are developed by the Vice President-elect. The SSWR Board of Directors and the Conference Committee provide input into the development of all invited sessions.
Conference Venue and Location
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
333 O’Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 771-1400
For questions, contact:
A. DeeJay Hastings, IOM, CAE (she/her)
SSWR Program Director
dj@sswr.org