CSW General

Gabrielle Dybalski, a graduate student in Florida State University’s master’s clinical social work program, brings a wealth of experience from her nine years in the U.S. Marine Corps, where she rose to staff sergeant (E6) as an intelligence specialist.

Her time at FSU has been defined by her commitment to service and involvement with the FSU Student Veterans Center, which she credits for easing her transition from military to academic life.

The College of Social Work at Florida State University hosted its 2025 Scholarship and Awards dinner, honoring distinguished alumni with six awards and more than 90 student scholars.

More than $109,625 in scholarships were provided to undergraduate and graduate social work students with interests in areas including child welfare, social policy, international social work, social work practice and military veterans.

This year, Dean David Springer was selected as a National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Social Work Pioneer. The program honors members of the social work profession who have made significant contributions to the growth and enrichment of the profession, as well as their exceptional dedication, commitment and determination to improve social and human conditions.

Helping professionals are constantly seeking ways to advance their knowledge and meet continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain licensure. However, there is often little reward for meeting these requirements, and fewer opportunities to share acquired knowledge with colleagues, supervisors and social media audiences. 

Stephanie Barca’s journey to a career in social work took many twists and turns. After graduating with an undergraduate degree in economics from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, she continued her education by earning a law degree. She went on to practice law for thirteen years in a variety of areas, including criminal defense.

Florida State University’s 

Matthew (Matt) Walsh (MSW ’21) was appointed on August 13, 2025, as the secretary of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).

Bailey Marie Latchford, a junior at Florida State University, is pursuing a dual degree in social work and criminal justice. Her journey to FSU was influenced by her three brothers who attended the university before her, the size of the campus and the many opportunities it offers.

“My inspiration to pursue social work stemmed from a commitment to human rights and desire to address disparities at a systems level, particularly for vulnerable children and families,” shared Dr. Kaela Byers. “I was particularly drawn to the potential for research to inform policy and practice changes that lead to more supportive and accessible systems.”

Starting in July 2025, the College of Social Work will sponsor the Toolkit on Successful Co-Parenting After Divorce, a training created by the Institute for Trauma and Resilience housed at the college. The training is an important resource helping divorced parents across the country create low-conflict, high-cooperation coparenting relationships.