York Social Work Scholar Takes Flight!

Rudy Jiovani Innocent will begin his first semester in fall 2025, becoming a trailblazer for York Social Work Scholars in the City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate Center’s Ph.D. in Social Welfare program. “My goal is to become a college professor, mentoring the next generation of social workers and contributing to the profession through innovation and impactful scholarly exploration,” Innocent said. His research focuses on resilience, self-care, mental health advocacy and social justice reform, applying a biopsychosocial lens to social work interventions.

He credits several mentors, including Isabelle Hubert, MSW, Dr. Jennette Allen-McCombs, Dr. David Hornung, Dr. Selena T. Rodgers and Dr. Alicia Wilson, for imparting invaluable life lessons and shaping his professional journey. “Their dedication, encouragement and unwavering belief in students have inspired me to dream big and work hard,” he said.

A licensed master social worker (LMSW), Innocent began his journey in fall 2019, driven by a passion for helping others and addressing social challenges. As an undergraduate social work major, he served as treasurer for the York College Social Work Empowering & Encouraging Together (S.W.E.E.T.) club in 2021.

During his MSW studies, Innocent and fellow student Weldon Lam created a peer support group during the COVID-19 pandemic, fostering resilience and inclusion. He later launched a self-care blog to further support his community.

Innocent earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from York College in May 2022 and his MSW in 2023. By the end of the year, he obtained his LMSW. Mentored by Dr. Hornung, he and Lam co-presented their research, “Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Considerations,” at the York College 2024 Converge conference.

As a first-generation Haitian American, Innocent draws from his heritage and lived experiences to address systemic barriers and uplift underserved communities. Since graduating, he has worked with diverse populations as an ABA therapist and psychotherapist, advocating for equity and mental health care.

The York College Department of Social Work commends his transformation from a quiet scholar to a dedicated researcher making meaningful contributions. Reflecting on his journey, Innocent expressed gratitude: “Thank you for investing in me, believing in me and giving me the tools to grow. I hope to continue making you proud and representing York College’s BSW and MSW programs with excellence.”