LSU School of Social Work Doctoral Scholar Alisha R. Thompson Selected for TIGER Talks
BATON ROUGE, LA. – As part of this year’s Giving Day celebration, the LSU School of Social Work is proud to spotlight doctoral candidate Alisha R. Thompson, who has been selected to participate in the prestigious TIGER Talks program—an honor that highlights emerging scholars and their commitment to creating meaningful change through research and communication.
Giving Day is an opportunity to celebrate the people and programs that make the school’s mission possible, and Thompson’s achievement reflects the impact of donor support in empowering students to pursue excellence in research, leadership, and community engagement.
TIGER Talks is a university-wide initiative that equips scholars to present their research in engaging, accessible ways, connecting academic insight to real-world challenges. The program’s emphasis on clear, inclusive communication aligns closely with Thompson’s work and values. “My work as a scholar and instructor centers on people and on contributing to positive change in their lives,” said Thompson. “Since most people will never read an academic journal article, I believe it is essential to translate research into engaging, accessible formats that reach beyond the academy.”
As a scholar with a visual impairment, Thompson is deeply committed to advancing accessibility in research communication. She emphasizes spoken and multimodal approaches that expand access for individuals with disabilities and create more inclusive learning environments for all. Thompson’s accomplishments reflect the strength of the school’s doctoral program and the opportunities made possible through fellowships and mentorship. She is a Huel D. Perkins Diversity Fellow and has previously been recognized as a Summer Policy Intern with the Gerontological Society of America and a Pre-Dissertation Fellow with the Association for Gerontology Education in Social Work. Through programs like TIGER Talks, Thompson continues to grow as a scholar and leader, preparing to translate research into practice and policy that improves lives and strengthens communities.
This Giving Day, the LSU School of Social Work celebrates students like Thompson, whose work demonstrates the transformative power of education, research, and donor support. Investments in the school directly support student success, innovative research, and the preparation of future social work leaders dedicated to advancing equity and well-being.
About the LSU School of Social Work
The LSU School of Social Work prepares students for advanced social work practice through education, research, and community engagement. Through the support of donors and partners, the school continues to empower students to lead, innovate, and serve communities across Louisiana and beyond.