University of South Florida (USF) Foundation
The USF School of Social Work's Clinical Fellowship Program gives post-graduate clinicians hands-on training on their path to licensure.
Centene Foundation and Sunshine Health are partnering with the USF Foundation to help strengthen Florida's behavioral health workforce. The partnership supports the USF School of Social Work's Clinical Fellowship Program, helping prepare the next generation of licensed clinicians to serve communities across the state.
At a Glance
INVESTMENT
TIMELINE
Launched in 2025
PARTNERS
- Centene Foundation
- Sunshine Health
- USF Foundation
- USF School of Social Work
PROGRAM
Clinical Fellowship Program Support
REGION
Florida
FOCUS
Behavioral Health Workforce Development
About The USF Foundation
The USF Foundation connects the University of South Florida with donors who support student success, academic initiatives and other university priorities. The USF Foundation is governed by an elected board of advocates dedicated to advancing the university's mission and strengthening educational opportunities for students and communities.
The Centene Foundation Partnership
Centene Foundation and Sunshine Health awarded a three-year, $300,000 grant to the USF Foundation to support the USF School of Social Work's Clinical Fellowship Program. The investment expands support for post-graduate training and professional development opportunities that help participants advance toward clinical licensure.
By investing in professional training and licensure pathways, the partnership helps prepare future clinicians to meet growing community needs and contribute to a stronger behavioral health system.
Why the USF Foundation's Work Matters
Florida faces a shortage of licensed clinicians who can provide mental health services. As demand for behavioral health support continues to grow, expanding the workforce of qualified professionals is critical to improving access to care and helping communities address unmet mental health needs.
Educational institutions and workforce development programs play an important role in helping future clinicians gain the training, experience and credentials needed to serve patients and communities effectively.
"The USF School of Social Work is deeply grateful to the Centene Foundation for this visionary investment in the future of our workforce and the well-being of our communities."
— Chris Simmons, Interim Director, University of South Florida School of Social Work
Services Provided
The Clinical Fellowship Program helps Master of Social Work graduates continue their professional development as they work toward clinical licensure. Grant funding supports structured fellowship opportunities that help participants transition from graduate education to supervised clinical practice.
Through the Clinical Fellowship Program, Master of Social Work graduates receive support as they progress toward professional licensure and transition into clinical practice.
Community Impact
The initiative is expected to produce approximately 12 newly licensed clinicians each year, totaling 36 licensed clinicians over the grant's three-year period from 2025 to 2028.