After earning my MSW in 1995, I worked as a community-based social worker for many years in both direct practice and administrative roles. My work centered on advocacy, education, crisis intervention, and program development, supporting victims of intimate partner violence, child abuse, sexual assault, and natural disasters.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a graduate faculty member is engaging with students and supporting them throughout their journey toward earning their MSW degree and/or Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) graduate certificate. I find great fulfillment in getting to know students, as well as to connect classroom learning to real-world practice as students prepare to become compassionate and competent social work professionals.
How does your graduate program(s) of instruction establish important connections to industry professionals?The MSW program has hundreds of established partnerships with organizations across North Carolina, as well as other states, where students are completing practicum (internship) experiences. Connections are also established with partners through the Integrated Behavioral Health Program. MSW faculty also collaborate with community partners on research projects such as program evaluations, in addition to serving on various boards.
Students entering the MSW program can expect to feel supported by faculty, staff, and peers throughout their journey. They’ll have opportunities to engage in orientation, academic advising, coursework, practicum experiences, experiential simulations, and activities in our Innovation Lab—such as guided meditation and more.
Explore the stories of our Graduate Niners and Faculty who are making a meaningful impact at Charlotte.
