Joel Odimba has served more than 30 years in public child welfare. During this time, he’s had many jobs such as being a volunteer to being a Regional Administrator. 

His academic achievements include: 

• B.A. from Central Washington University
• M.S.W. from University of Washington
• Ph.D. from Capella University, Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Senior Fellow of the American Leadership Forum inductee

Joel has shared his knowledge and experience with the next generation of social workers in a variety of positions including: 

• Human services and criminal justice faculty at the University of Phoenix
• Guest lecturer, Advisory Committee Member, and Practicum Instructor for the University of Washington
• Consulting on the development of Seattle University’s MSW program
• Human Services Advisory Board Member at Clover Park Technical College

Joel has worked to address disproportionality, strengthen tribal relations, systems collaboration, accountability, and improve outcomes in child welfare. These efforts have led to practice improvements in child welfare; court collaborations; partnerships with private agencies and providers; parent-partners; caregivers; child-serving organizations; and community.

In his current role as Director of Child Welfare Workforce Support, Joel leads child welfare workforce retention and support initiatives.