Brittany Debarros (MSW’26) Awarded Prestigious Whitney M. Young, Jr. Fellowship
BU School of Social Work (BUSSW) is proud to announce that Brittany Debarros (SSW’26) has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Whitney M. Young, Jr. Fellowship. Awarded annually to a current masters or professional student at Boston University, the fellowship honors the legacy of civil rights leader Whitney M. Young, Jr., whose groundbreaking work in social work, urban studies, and Afro-American studies continues to inspire generations. The fellowship provides comprehensive support, including full-time tuition coverage and a $30,000 service-free living stipend.
As a first-generation college graduate and multilingual professional, Debarros is deeply committed to advancing equity and mental health access in marginalized communities. Her work centers on dismantling systemic barriers and addressing the stigma surrounding mental health—particularly for youth, immigrants, and low-income individuals of color.
Driven by an understanding of trauma-informed, culturally responsive care, Debarros advocates for emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being for those facing systemic challenges. She brings this dedication to her current roles as both a MSW student and practicum intern at BUSSW, and as a behavioral health counselor at Boston Children’s Hospital.
With a clear vision for transformative change, Debarros is forging a path in social work that uplifts and empowers underserved communities. Her selection for the Whitney M. Young, Jr. Fellowship reflects both her extraordinary promise and her ongoing impact in the field.