Alumni & Friends

Students take many different paths when they graduate, and the experience is often very personal and individualized. For two talented FSU College of Social Work alumni, their journeys into careers in social work began with their field placements.

Kotrish Wright, an MSW student, made the most of her time at the College of Social Work when she participated with many other social work students in the 2016 National Association of Social Workers LEAD (Legislative and Education Days) at the Florida Capitol, advocating for social work. While networking at the event, she received information about a unique fellowship opportunity through the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Kotrish further researched the CSWE Minority Fellowship and decided to contact a representative.

Two years ago, Darcy Maher (MSW ’15) inspired student Megan Armison to become involved in FSU’s Dance Marathon.  The event raises funds each year for Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. Darcy’s excitement and passion encouraged Megan to join in 2016 as a dancer. By the end of her first event, she began planning her involvement in next year’s event. With Darcy’s support, Megan was designated the College of Social Work delegate for the 2017 FSU Dance Marathon.

On the evening of February 28^th before the beginning of Social Work Month and Women’s History Month, more than 500 people gathered at the Turnbull Conference Center for the fourth annual Women in Leadership conference to enjoy inspirational dialogue and advice from a multitude of female leaders.

The FSU College of Social Work has always been committed to helping students and alumni achieve success, but recently, Dean Nick Mazza decided to do more.

“There was really an opportunity for the College to reach out to students, alumni and community members, and enhance their professional careers in social work,” said Mazza. “We established the Professional Development Program to provide additional resources for these groups that will ultimately help them succeed.”

Thanks to your generous support, the FSU College of Social Work continues to fulfill it’s “student-centered” mission. Here are just a few highlights of the the gifts received this summer:

The College of Social Work recently named Pam Graham its Jeanene M. Janes Child Welfare Fellow. The fellowship is awarded to a College of Social Work faculty member who places a special emphasis on child welfare issues. Graham is the director of the College’s Bachelor of Social Work Program and Professional Development Program.

The FSU College of Social Work proudly announces the launch of its new magazine, Communitas.

“Social work is a shared story, and Communitas is the shared vision of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends to strengthen our College’s community,” Dean Nicholas Mazza said.

As the only faculty recognition award by the student body, members of Burning Spear, Inc., recognized 15 faculty members across campus who have made a commitment to advancing FSU as a leading institution of higher education.  College of Social Work Assistant Professor Eyitayo Onifade was one of the esteemed faculty members honored with this award.