Social Work Faculty

(she/her)

Desirée Luerene Israel serves as the MSW Practicum Director and Assistant Professor in the Master of Social Work program. With a strong commitment to advancing the profession of social work, Desirée brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her professional journey is characterized by a focus on perinatal mental health, reproductive psychotherapy, and cultivating culturally competent care.

Areas of expertise include perinatal mental health, reproductive psychotherapy, culturally competent care, adolescent parenting and community engagement.

Desirée's dedication to her students' growth and her passion for shaping the future of social work make her a vital asset to Alverno College's Social Work Department. Beyond her academic role, Desirée co-founded the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color and maintains licensed as a clinical social worker in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia.