Social Work Student Association (SWSA)
The Social Work Student Association (SWSA) is an organization for BA Social Work and MSW students who are interested in enhancing their education by being active on campus and in the community. In the past, SWSA has participated in Take Back the Night, the annual “Empty Bowls” benefit for programs serving the homeless, and speak-outs on political issues affecting social services or social justice. Money is raised each year for students to attend the NASW conference and the annual “Lobby Days” at the state capitol. In addition, SWSA often publishes a newsletter, holds fundraising raffles, and sends student representatives to the Community Advisory Committee as well as the weekly Social Work Department meeting. SWSA interests have also expanded to include community issues that are significant to participants, ranging from women's rights to HIV/AIDS. We are always open to new, fresh ideas.
Students have been represented on the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) and Department Search Committees, and their attendance and participation are encouraged. Opportunity for input on these committees varies with the agenda, but has included course curriculum content, seminars for Agency Field Instructors, CAC membership, revision of by-laws, and hiring of new Department faculty and staff.
Weekly Social Work Department meetings are open to all social work students. The SWSA appoints one person to attend these meetings every week. There is a regular place on the agenda for SWSA business. Student participation in Department meetings varies from year to year, depending on priorities and interest. These meetings address both academic and student affairs, to insure communication and collaboration between the faculty and students. In the event that the faculty need to discuss any personnel issues or concerns regarding an individual student, the meeting is closed to protect student confidentiality.
SWSA is a great place to gain organizational and leadership skills. Being a member is often an empowering experience, and may also earn participants one unit of course credit, provided that they are taking leadership roles or working actively to develop the Association. SWSA is also a great place to meet other Social Work students, and have a lot of FUN!
If you are interested in more information about the SWSA, please contact the current President at swsa@humboldt.edu and check out the website.
