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Jessica Polk, LCSW (she/her/ella) is a Full-Time Faculty Member in the School of Social Work where she teaches BASW and MSW courses and integrates principles of equity and social justice into academic practice. She also serves as Co-Director of Inclusive Excellence for the College of Health and Human Services, where she develops measurable DEIA metrics, leads a three-year strategic plan, and supports departments in strengthening inclusive practices.

Jessica has led statewide and countywide workforce training initiatives for MSW students, including the Adult Protective Services Training Program and the LADCFS + UCLA Academy of Workforce Excellence partnership, which provide specialized training and financial support for future social workers. Beyond the classroom, she serves as Faculty Co-Chair of the Latinx Faculty and Staff Association (LFSA), Co-Founder of the CHHS Inclusive Excellence Collective, and sits on the Board of Directors of a local community-based mental health nonprofit.

The first in her family to graduate high school, Jessica earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from San Diego State University. She brings 20 years of experience serving underserved and marginalized populations, including working with youth experiencing homelessness, youth in foster care, and commercially sexually exploited children. Her career reflects a deep commitment to advancing equity, amplifying marginalized voices, and fostering systemic change through trauma-informed care, wellness initiatives, and community organizing.