School of Behavioral Health dean inducted into California Social Work Hall of Distinction

Beverly J. Buckles, DSW, MSW, dean of Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health, was inducted into the California Social Work Hall of Distinction on November 15, an honor that recognizes her commitment to extraordinary leadership in the field of social work. 

At an induction ceremony following the conclusion of the National Association of Social Workers–California’s annual conference in Irvine, Dr. Buckles was recognized for her years of work in building programs, influencing public policy and services, mentoring future leaders, and supporting the expansion of resiliency and trauma-informed practice on a global scale.

Buckles said she is truly honored to have received this distinction. "From building programs that prepare compassionate, mission-driven practitioners to serving communities in crisis through international resiliency and trauma-informed initiatives, this recognition reflects the shared dedication of colleagues, students, and partners who have joined in this work,” Buckles said. 

“I am humbled by this honor and inspired to continue advancing our professions as we extend service, healing, and hope to the communities we serve."

Buckles earned her Doctorate in Social Welfare from Adelphi University and is also a graduate of Walla Walla University and Eastern Washington University. As founding chair of the Department of Social Work and Social Ecology at Loma Linda University, she has developed several premier professional programs, including the Master’s and Doctor of Social Work, and the Master of Science in Criminal Justice, among others.

Buckles founded and leads LLU’s International Behavioral Health Trauma Team, which has provided over 100 mission trips to over 65 countries, providing psychological first aid and community resiliency support through crisis and post-crisis responses to the most vulnerable populations in different regions of the world, including Ukraine, Haiti, Sierra Leone, Nepal, and Côte d'Ivoire.

With her induction into the California Social Work Hall of Distinction, Buckles joins an esteemed group of California social workers who have significantly impacted both society and their profession. Learn more about this distinction and find previous inductees here.