Her MSSW carries more than just academic credentials.
Hamilton, a first-generation college student, found her calling in social work through personal experiences. Her journey from foster care to becoming an advocate for substance use disorder policy represents the transformative power of education and strategic philanthropy.
“I lost my father to suicide, compounded by substance use,” Hamilton said. “I decided to pursue an education in social work to work in harm reduction and homelessness.”
Scholarships Open doors
What might have remained an unreachable dream became reality through the generosity of John David and Leslie Moritz, whose scholarship support made her education possible.
“I’ve been able to focus on my courses without the added stress of financial worries,” said Hamilton.
Like many first-generation students, Hamilton faced significant challenges when beginning her academic journey.
“Just my overall confidence and general anxiety — it was a constant struggle when I first started school,” she recalls. “Being at UT Social Work offset a lot of these challenges. The staff and faculty care so much for their students.
My undergraduate academic advisor was a wonderful support for me.”
Throughout her time at UT Social Work, Hamilton has distinguished herself as a passionate advocate for improving substance use disorder policy and care for those struggling with substance abuse.
Her practicum experiences, as well as an undergraduate course entitled “Communities and Organizations,” proved particularly valuable for Hamilton, who focused on the value of work in grassroots organizations.
“My practicum experiences solidified my passion for working in harm reduction and homelessness,” said Hamilton.
Generosity Ripples
The initial scholarship endowment from the Moritz family in 2018 has enabled more than 50 outstanding students, like Hamilton, to pursue their dream of higher education. Their generosity creates ripples that will touch countless individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Every social worker trained at this level will positively impact hundreds, even thousands, of clients throughout their career.
For donors and supporters of UT Social Work, Hamilton’s story demonstrates the profound return on investment that comes from funding scholarships. By removing financial barriers for promising students with diverse life experiences, benefactors like the Moritz family don’t just change individual lives — they help transform entire systems of care.
Advice for Future Changemakers
“The impact of financial gifts doesn’t stop with the students. It also reaches communities they are able to serve,” said Hamilton. “Social work scholarships never stop giving.”