Diana R. Garland School of Social Work

For Dr. Ling Xu and Dr. Jinyu Liu, the Dallas Chinese Community Center Health Fair is an opportunity to put the Garland School’s mission into practice—serving others, building relationships and understanding individuals within the context of their families, cultures, and communities. Through their work with the DCCC, Drs. Xu and Liu have found meaningful connections between their research and the experiences of the people they meet. Their ongoing partnership is a reminder that social work can take many forms, bringing together knowledge, compassion and a commitment to making a difference.

Garland School alum Biak Nu Sung, MSW '12, has been recognized with Baylor's first-ever Pro Mundo Medal of Service. Originally from Chin State, Myanmar, Biak came to Baylor through the Global Mission Leadership Scholars Program, where she earned her master's degree with a concentration in children and family practice. After returning to Myanmar following graduation, she eventually joined UNICEF as a child protection specialist, combining her social work training with her passion for child development and family support. Through her work in rural communities, Biak focuses on prevention, educating families and helping children grow in safe supportive environments. Her journey reflects the Garland School’s emphasis on faith, service and using social work to care for the whole person and community. Well done, Biak!

"I chose social work to help people. I found that I could advocate for people and problem solve with individuals to help them better themselves and their situation. I would say that social work is the perfect fit for my calling. I believe God called me to serve people by doing what I do best: problem solve. As soon as I decided to pursue social work, so many doors opened up, and I felt God’s affirmation." 

The Diana R. Garland School of Social Work is pleased to welcome the 2026–2027 Global Mission Leadership (GML) Scholars to Baylor University. This year’s cohort includes Arreya Achasuksan, Rodgers Mieno and Agnes Situma. Each scholar brings unique experiences in community development, education, advocacy and service, united by a shared commitment to supporting vulnerable communities, expanding opportunities and creating lasting change. During their time at Baylor, they will build on their experiences and strengthen their skills as leaders in social work and community development.