Faculty Member Elected Chair of Macro Social Work Organization
This year Dr. Shalay Jackson, an associate teaching professor at the College of Social Work, was named the new chair of the Association for Community Organizing and Social Action (ACOSA). Elected by ACOSA’s board, she will hold the position for two years through December 2026.
ACOSA is a professional membership organization designed to bring together community organizers, activists, nonprofit administrators, community builders, policy practitioners, students and educators.
Dr. Jackson joined the FSU College of Social Work’s faculty in 2018, returning to her alma mater, where she earned her Bachelor of Social Work in 2006. With a passion for macro social work, Dr. Jackson has been an active member of ACOSA since 2019 and is excited to take on this new and challenging role.
“I want to give back to an organization that has profoundly shaped my journey, both as a member and a board member,” she conveyed. “When I became an ACOSA member, I was warmly welcomed and connected with fellow members who share the same passion and commitment to macro social work.”
As chair, she will oversee ACOSA and work alongside two vice-chairs to ensure the organization’s goals are addressed providing supervision, guidance, and support to its members and committees. Her role includes extensive involvement in strategic planning, fiscal management, legal considerations and representing ACOSA in activities with other national macro organizations.
Dr. Jackson previously served for four years as the liaison for the Macro Social Work Student Network (MSWSN), which aims to connect macro-practice social work students. She is also the faculty advisor for the FSU Chapter of MSWSN, which was established in 2020 and received a 2023 ACOSA Outstanding Student Group Award for outstanding community practice.
“As chair I look forward to continuing to foster that sense of community for macro students, educators, and practitioners and working with the board and vice chairs to expand ACOSA’s reach and impact,” she enthused. “At the core, I am excited and grateful to help build relationships among these dedicated organizations and individuals.”
In addition to providing a sense of belonging for macro students, scholars, and practitioners, ACOSA members gain access to the Journal of Community Practice and weekly newsletter featuring macro news, announcements, and job postings. The organization also offers webinars, opportunities for leadership, and the Community Practice Certificate for schools interested in preparing students for careers in community organizing, community development, and community change.
She encourages anyone wishing to learn more or become involved to visit the ACOSA website.