Spring 2025 - lecturer | mtsu department of social work
(EXL) Introduction to Social Work - SW-2570-002
The methods, history, philosophy, and present organization of the social work profession.
This is an on-ground class I will teach on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is a designated MT Engage course.
Social Policy - SW-3000-001 (on ground) and D01; D02 (online)
Emphasis on recurring themes in social welfare policy development processes, historical turning points; societal ethics; causal relationship--social problems, social change, and social welfare policy analytical frameworks for assessing social welfare policy and programs. I teach three sections of this course for the Spring 2025 semester (one in person and two online).
(EXL) Integrative Seminar in Social Work - SW-4690-B03; B01
(EXL) Integrative Seminar in Social Work - SW-4690-B03; B01
An opportunity for the student, with instructor and peers, to explore the knowledge, values, and skills gained from academic and field experiences and to synthesize and integrate theory and practice. Both sections (B01; B03) of this course will be combined into a single in-person class held every Friday. Dr. Dotson and I will be collaborating as co-instructors to facilitate the course.
Intro to SW: Real Love Doesn't Leave bruises Nonviolence campaign - April 22nd
Join the Conversation: Social Policy
The Impact of Federal Funding Freeze and Cuts
What: Video Response on the Consequences of Federal Funding Freeze and Cuts
Presenter: Emery Washington, BSW Student, Middle Tennessee State University,
Department of Social Work | SW 3000-001: Social Policy
Guest Expert: Dr. Tara McKay, Director of Vanderbilt LGBTQ Policy Lab and Associate
Director of the Center for Research on Inequality and Health
Topic: The Impact of Federal Funding Freeze: Realities, Challenges, and Call to Action
Date: February 8, 2025
Where to Watch:
Vanderbilt University Zoom Recording
Password: !1RVgU2$
Why Watch?
• Explore Critical Impacts: Understand how federal funding freezes disrupt
essential social services, community programs, and vulnerable populations.
• Gain Expert Insight: Hear from Dr. Tara McKay on the intersection of funding
policies, LGBTQ health, and social inequality.
• Promote Advocacy: Learn from Emery Washington’s policy analysis and discover
ways to engage in equitable funding solutions.
Stand informed. Be inspired. Take action.
a student's commitment to social justice
Participating in a Rally
Arely Martinez Lopez raises her voice at a rally in Nashville, TN, standing in solidarity against hateful rhetoric and recent attacks on immigrant communities. Her sign, reading “Children need HUGS NOT CUFFS,” captures the call for dignity, compassion, and justice for immigrant families.
Attending a House Committee Meeting
Arely Martinez Lopez attends a Tennessee House Committee meeting to support her high school teacher's testimony opposing a proposed bill that threatens equitable access to public education. Her presence reflects a commitment to protecting the rights of all students and advocating for inclusive, high-quality education across the state.
Integrative Seminar in Social Work
Social Justice
Environmental Justice
Social Justice
In addressing social justice, students explored issues such as access to education, healthcare, and housing. Their infographics depicted disparities faced by marginalized communities and proposed solutions to promote inclusivity and equity. Presentations emphasized the role of social work in advocating for policies that dismantle systemic barriers and uplift vulnerable populations.
Racial Justice
Environmental Justice
Social Justice
For racial justice, students examined topics such as discrimination, police reform, and racial disparities in the criminal justice system. Their infographics provided powerful visual representations of inequality, supported by data and historical context. Presenters shared strategies for fostering anti-racism, cultural competence, and community empowerment within social work practice.
Economic Justice
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
In exploring economic justice, students highlighted wage gaps, poverty, and access to financial resources. Their infographics broke down complex issues like income inequality and affordable housing, emphasizing the importance of policies that promote fair economic opportunities. Presentations included advocacy strategies to support econom
In exploring economic justice, students highlighted wage gaps, poverty, and access to financial resources. Their infographics broke down complex issues like income inequality and affordable housing, emphasizing the importance of policies that promote fair economic opportunities. Presentations included advocacy strategies to support economic mobility and reduce financial disparities within communities.
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
Finally, students addressed environmental justice, focusing on issues such as climate change, pollution, and unequal access to clean resources. Infographics illustrated the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on marginalized communities. Presentations stressed the role of social work in environmental advocacy, community organ
Finally, students addressed environmental justice, focusing on issues such as climate change, pollution, and unequal access to clean resources. Infographics illustrated the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on marginalized communities. Presentations stressed the role of social work in environmental advocacy, community organizing, and policy reform to ensure equitable access to a healthy environment for all.
Red Cross Presentations - volunteerism
February 10, 2025
February 10, 2025
February 10, 2025
Social Policy Presentation: "Empowering Communities Through Volunteerism: How Social Policy Shapes Disaster Response Efforts" – Jon Taylor, Disaster Program Manager, American Red Cross-Heart of Tennessee.
Disaster Action Team (DAT) Members: Assist communities during local disasters, providing emergency relief and witnessing social policies in action.
Policy Advocate for Blood Drives: Promote blood donation initiatives, highlighting the role of public health policies.
February 11, 2025
February 10, 2025
February 10, 2025
Introduction to Social Work Presentation: "Serving Communities in Crisis: The Role of Social Workers in Disaster Relief" – Jon Taylor, Disaster Program Manager, American Red Cross-Heart of Tennessee.
Casework Volunteer: Help disaster survivors create recovery plans and connect with essential services.
Shelter Support Volunteer: Provide care and crisis support to individuals and families in emergency shelters.
first day of class sp25 - introduction to social work