Dalila John grew up in southern Illinois and was inspired by her parents commitment to service and social change. She also recalls childhood stories from her mother about her inquisitiveness around equity and desire to change the world. This drove Dalila to pursue a career in social work practice and education. Dalila is currently the MSW Program Director, Clinical Assistant Professor at The University of Alabama. She received her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Illinois State University, Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan, and Doctor of Social Work degree from the University of St. Thomas.

 

Dalila's most recent research has focused on examining the experiences of African American faculty and investigating the internal and external factors related to their job satisfaction and retention. Her research centers the voices and experiences of Black social work faculty. It also challenges institutions to extend beyond diversity statements and initiatives, to fully investigate the racial disparities within the academy, and to think critically about recruitment and retention of diverse faculty. 

 

Dalila has over 13 years of experience teaching and leading in social work education where she has continued to prioritize diversity, social justice, relationship-building, experiential learning, and community collaboration. Prior to working in academia, Dalila worked in the social work field in the areas of child welfare, mental health, substance abuse prevention and treatment, program development and management, and community organization.

 

Dalila is passionate about building anti-racist, diverse, equitable and inclusive communities centered on mutual empathy and respect, empowerment, and authenticity. She is also loves helping people reach their goals. 

 

Dalila is married to her life partner, Gene and they are parents of three children. She is also a mother of an Autistic child and is a strong advocate for neurodiversity awareness and acceptance. Dalila prioritizes spending time with those she loves and she also enjoys running long distances, traveling to new places, enjoying a tasty meal, and reading a great book.