Each year NASW-Michigan has the privilege of awarding up to two exceptional students with the Student Leadership in Diversity Award. These $500 scholarships recognize and promote leaders among social work students who are working on projects, research, or advocacy initiatives that promote diversity and social justice. Students should demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities, have an above average academic record, and be working to promote the ideals of social work and our Code of Ethics. The 2018 award winners have gone above and behind fulfilling all of these requirements. On November 1st, Christina Shannon and Heather Wise (unable to attend) were honored in front of their peers and colleagues at the Legislative Education & Advocacy Day in Lansing.
Christina Shannonis a BSW candidate at Eastern Michigan University. We got the chance to talk to Christina at the 2018 LEAD Day. Here are some of the questions we asked:
Why did you decide to go into the field of social work?
As a student and as a member of NASW, how do you promote diversity and social justice?
Do you have any advice for other students studying social work?
How do you plan to use this scholarship to advance the mission and values of the social work profession?
Heather Wise is a MSW candidate at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. Though Heather was unable to attend LEAD 2018, we were able to ask her a few questions (transcript below).
Why are you a member of NASW?
“I joined NASW in 2015 after deciding to go back to school to complete my Bachelor's in Social Work. As an adult student returning to school, I saw great value in becoming a member of NASW so I could be part of a larger group of social workers committed to social justice, access continuing education trainings, and network within my profession. My BSW internship was with NASW Ohio Chapter, and that experience was foundational to my education in macro social work and my decision to complete an MSW. Having had the opportunity to be part of the work NASW does on regional, state, and national levels affirmed my commitment to be a NASW member for life.”
Why did you decide to go into the field of social work?
“I had previously studied psychology and was very disappointed by the lack of attention to issues of power and social justice within the field, so I chose to go back to school to pursue a career in social work in hopes of contributing to systemic change as an advocate for racial, gender, and economic justice.”
As a student and as a member of NASW, how do you promote diversity and social justice?
“I promote diversity, inclusion, and equity by using a framework of critical intersectionality and uplifting anti-oppressive practices within my work as an adult ally in youth-led community organizing initiatives for education and migration justice.”
Do you have any advice for other students studying social work?
“Remember that you’re not in this process alone, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and take advantage of the resources and support networks available to you. And when what you need isn’t accessible, advocate for yourself and connect with others to build the services and resources that you (and others) need. And always prioritize a commitment to equity and social justice.”
How do you plan to use this scholarship to advance the mission and values of the social work profession?
“As a full time graduate student with unpaid field work and a part time job, this scholarship is a blessing in helping me make ends meet while I pursue a career in social work where I can practice our professional values in pursuit of building larger, stronger, and more just movements for change.”
Please join us in congratulating Christina and Heather!
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Why did you decide to go into the field of social work?