Dual degree grad receives esteemed Tulane 34 award
A dual-degree student from Tulane School of Social Work has been named one of 2025’s “Tulane 34.” Tulane’s most prestigious student award, the honor is given to just 34 distinguished students out of the nearly 5,000 who graduated in May.
Stephen Randle, who graduated with his Master of Social Work in December 2024 and finished his Master of Science in Disaster Resilience Leadership in May, was recognized for his exceptional leadership, service, and academic excellence. He credits his peers and professors for getting him to the finish line.
“I was so intimidated going into the MSW/DRLA program. I had many doubts. However, the professors and the community the program creates helped push through. I was so lucky to have so many supportive teachers, colleagues, and friends,” said Randle.
DRLA is an outstanding hands-on experience. All the professors there are honestly geniuses and only want what is best for their students.
Stephen Randle, MSW, MS-DRL
Randle completed his MSW practicum placement internship at West Jefferson Medical Center, where he provided social services and discharge planning to patients with neurological conditions.
“West Jefferson Medical Center reiterated the notion that nothing ever stops,” said Randle. “Hospitals are constantly moving, and you always have to stay on your toes. I was lucky to have some great teachers over there to help me organize myself. In addition, a positive attitude and a sense of humor about crud hitting the fan was super important.”
In addition to the Tulane 34 award, Randle was the recipient of Tulane School of Social Work’s 2025 DRLA Student Award for Outstanding Achievement. An exceptionally dedicated student, Randle showcased his resilient partnership expertise through two mock grant proposals: one for evacuating a nursing home on the West Bank in case of disaster, and one for providing transportation assistance to unhoused populations.
“DRLA is an outstanding hands-on experience.” Randle said. “All the professors there are honestly geniuses and only want what is best for their students. I had some great hands-on classes for writing grants and partnership proposals. I had no experience prior.”
As for what’s next? Randle is open to anything.
“The future right now is full of fog, but uncertainty is a good thing sometimes,” Randle said. “I continue to work at West Jefferson Medical Center and am open to broadening my career in the medical social work, therapy, and/or disaster management.”
