Social Work

Advisor: Dr. Greg Tully 

The Social Work Club (SWC) is a registered student organization, open to all college students and exists to enhance the professional development of students of the social work profession. Faculty advisors meet regularly with the SWC, however, the organization is run for students and by students. Each semester, at least one outing for social work majors is planned to enhance the overall relationship among social work students and faculty. The SWC also provides: 

• networking opportunities 
• creatiion and implementation of service projects
• the ability to develop leadership skills
• a support system for students
• an opportunity to address Departmental and University-wide concerns

The exact goals and purposes are determined by officers, class representatives, and active members. Officers are elected by the student body in scheduled elections. 

The SWC has carried out several projects involving the University as well as the surrounding neighborhoods. These include clothing drives, food drives, and volunteering at community centers. Social Work Club officers participate in student governance in the University at large through the Student Government Association, and thus have opportunities for the development of leadership skills and for enrichment of their entire learning experience at WCU. In addition, SWC has sponsored several fundraisers, including the bi-annual rose sale, to allow many students to attend national conferences.

Advisor: Dr. Travis Ingersoll & Dr. Susan Wysor -Nguema (Philly)

The Social Work Honor Society, Phi Alpha, is a national organization dedicated to academic excellence and leadership in social work. The WCU chapter of Phi Alpha has been in existence since 1991. Phi Alpha is run by the student-elected officers (elected each Spring) and has its own budget. A faculty advisor is assigned to Phi Alpha and participates in regular meetings and Society activities. 

Each Spring semester the faculty advisor and Phi Alpha executive officers distribute information regarding application to Phi Alpha. The WCU chapter of Phi Alpha sets its own standards for eligibility in accordance with the criteria of the national organization. Eligibility requirements include:

• 12 completed social work credits
• GPA of 3.5 in social work courses
• Involvement in community and/or campus activities.

Students meeting the eligibility criteria are notified by the current chapter President and are officially welcomed into Phi Alpha in an annual Induction Ceremony. 

Phi Alpha activities include, but are not restricted to:

• Presentations and leadership roles in annual social work conferences (BPD, NASW, PA Chapter of NASW)
• Service projects
• Fundraisers
• Social activities
• Working closely with the Social Work Club in all of its programs and activities.

All social work students, regardless of Phi Alpha membership, are invited and encouraged to participate in Phi Alpha sponsored activities. 

 

Advisor: Dr. Ebonnie Vazquez

The West Chester Chapter of the National Association of Black Social Workers was chartered in 2015.  The organization is committed to enhancing the quality of life and empowering people of African ancestry through advocacy, human services delivery, and research. This is a membership organization however campus programs and service events are open to the WCU campus.  Members can attend the National and local conferences.  NABSW’s vision is guided by the Principles of the Nguzo Saba, which are Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.

Student are also encouraged to join NASW.  To express interest in attending a NASW conference, please contact any faculty person.

For more information on becoming a member visit the NASW Website.