Dr. Sylvia Bekele is a social worker with over a decade of experience in child welfare, foster care and adoption, trauma-informed care, equine-assisted therapeutic techniques, and social work in diverse settings—both internationally and in urban schools. She holds a Human Services Management Certificate from The Network for Social Work Management and a School Social Work, Educational Specialist Certificate from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

At the heart of Dr. Bekele’s work is a deep belief in the healing power of relationships. She sees connection as the foundation for resilience, transformation, and meaningful change, both in social work practice and education. She is passionate about supporting students as they step into their professional identities, helping them build the skills and confidence they need to serve communities effectively.

Her research explores the professional socialization of social work students, fostering belonging in graduate online learning environments, social work leadership and coaching, AI literacy in social work, and the intersection of social work and Orthodox Christian principles. 

Beyond her academic work, Dr. Bekele is actively involved in her community. She serves as a professional and scientific associate for the Center for the Study of School Social Work, participates in a Classical Conversations Co-op, and is engaged in St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church in Natick, MA. Outside of work, she values time with family and close friends, finding joy in meaningful conversations and shared experiences.