What is the best part about teaching in this graduate program?
Working with students who are passionate about social work practice and committed to positively enhancing the lives of individuals, families, and the larger community. Our focus on Cultural Humility and Integrated Practice challenges us to think about “problems” from a wide range of perspectives.
What is the one thing you hope students take away from your course(s)?
Person-centered practice requires appreciating and understanding the unique perspectives and experiences of clients. Building on a person’s strengths and capacities is far more effective than focusing on deficits. Many problems encountered by clients are a direct response to structural issues and social inequities.
What are the real-world applications of the work you do at the University?
I train social workers to provide mental health services in a variety of community settings. Social Workers provide mental health care more than any other profession in the US.
What kinds of coursework and capstone projects should students expect?
Courses are practical and combine both theoretical and “real world” perspectives. Our classrooms are active, engaging, and coursework is designed to meet a wide range of student learning styles.
What advice would you give to a student who wants to be successful?
Recognize that you are training for a profession so the expectations are high but the payoff is tremendous. Use your faculty as a resource — we are committed to helping you succeed!
What is the focus of your scholarly pursuits?
Practical application of evidence-based practice in organizational and practice settings.