Umeka Franklin began her career at USC as an adjunct practicum faculty lecturer in the Virtual Academic Center, teaching integrative seminars as well as courses in Military Clinical Experience and Virtual Practicum. She is currently an associate teaching professor, practicum education in the Department of Children, Youth and Families.

As a licensed clinical social worker, she has worked across the lifespan providing services to various populations. She served in a leadership role as a social work coordinator working with military veterans at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. After earning a Veterans Health Administration Mentor Certification, Franklin mentored and supported employees and staff at the VA. She has also worked as a psychiatric social worker for the Los Angeles Unified School District, providing direct clinical services to individuals, families and groups. In addition, she has expertise as a medical social worker with an emphasis on nephrology, as well as working with children and families who have experienced traumatic events.

Franklin received a bachelor’s degree in social work and a gerontology certificate from California State University, Los Angeles. She received her Master’s degree in Social Work and a Pupil Personnel Services credential from USC. She earned her Doctor of Education at the USC Rossier School of Education.