The University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) is pleased to announce Malaysia Harrell ’02 as the incoming president and Brittany Brendel ’13 as the incoming vice president of the UMSSW Alumni Board. Their leadership reflects the strength, vision, and commitment of our alumni community and will help guide the board's efforts to deepen engagement and support the school.
Harrell, LCSW-C, LICSW, BCD, is an accomplished clinical social worker and leader whose career spans direct practice, behavioral health leadership, and service to UMSSW. She has contributed extensively to child, adolescent, and family mental health initiatives and has remained closely connected to the school through teaching, mentorship, and alumni board service. As an adjunct faculty member and recognized innovator in holistic, trauma-informed practice, she brings a powerful combination of professional expertise and lived experience to her new role on the Alumni Board.
Brendel, LCSW-C, is a 2013 UMSSW graduate with a concentration in clinical social work, families, and children, and has built her career around supporting youth and families in a variety of practice settings. She has remained actively involved with UMSSW through alumni programming and board service, offering insight on clinical training, student support, and community-based practice. Her commitment to strong clinical practice, interprofessional collaboration, and mentorship makes her a thoughtful and engaged alumni leader.
UMSSW looks forward to this new chapter of alumni leadership under Harrell and Brendel. Their shared passion for social work, dedication to community impact, and vision for inclusive alumni engagement will help strengthen connections among graduates, enhance support for current students, and advance the school’s mission locally and beyond.