(HOUSTON, TX) - Congratulations to MSW Student Essie T. Richardson who was awarded a 2025 Ima Hogg Scholarship by The Hogg Foundation for Mental Health.

Recipients selected "were chosen for their commitment to strengthening the well-being of communities as professionals in the Texas mental health workforce."

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Name: Essie T. Richardson
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Program and Expected Graduation Year: May 2026

Congratulations on being awarded this scholarship!

What initially inspired you to continue your education in social work?

The help and guidance of my teachers and my aunt who is a social worker in the community.

Who is someone you look up to regarding social work and social justice?  

Angela Davis

Why do you believe it is vital to provide/raise awareness of mental health services to historically underserved communities?

It is vital to provide/raise awareness of mental health services to historically underserved communities because many people in those communities do not have equable resources to hep support them; me being one those people who grew up like that.

How has the GCSW prepared you for a future career in providing mental health services to underrepresented/underserved communities? 

The GCSW has prepared me so far, for a future career in providing mental health services to underrepresented/underserved communities by the experiences of my professor teaching us how to better serve those communities.