Hello Wayne State School of Social Work Community,

In my six weeks in the role of Dean, I have been meeting individually with every faculty and staff person from the School of Social Work (SSW). In these meetings we discuss their unique perspectives on the strengths, weakness, and opportunities associated with the SSW. Because every individual and role is different, and I'm including other university administrators, I am accumulating a 360 degree view of the SSW. While time consuming, I am learning so much about the SSW and the people who are committed to it!  

Among those committed to the SSW are our inspirational faculty such as Fayetta Keyes, recently elected to WSU Academy of Teachers, and our newest faculty, Victor Burlaka. As written here, Victor brings extensive experience as a clinical psychologist and a licensed macro and micro social worker. In my conversation with Victor I learned about his journey to the United States and about the history of his family in the Ukraine. This history, and his journey here, provide a perspective on the plight of many living in the midst of political conflict and oppression around the world. I am confident that in these troubling times, Victor can illuminate these issues for us from his unique perspective and deepen our understanding.

Our staff are also committed to the SSW and the community at large as evidenced by the story of the C2 Pipeline. Although many faculty and staff were necessary for the SSW to engage in the C2 Pipeline activities, Takisha Lashore and Shantalea Johns engaged these high school juniors with scenario based learning, daily, for two weeks this summer. At the closing ceremony I learned first-hand what these students learned and how they put it to use in their interdisciplinary problem-solving groups. What a great experience for these students and what a great recruiting and outreach activity on behalf of the school!

Finally, a major shout out to our Entrepreneurship Committee for receiving the 2018 Award for Innovative Teaching in Social Work. Mark my words there will be a lot more to say about this group in the coming months!

As we transition to fall, and a new academic year, I am mindful that the SSW is in a period of transition, not only my arrival, but preparing to undergo major changes associated with the new university accounting and budgeting system. It will take our village of committed faculty and staff to use their creativity and passion to position us well for the next century….but then again, they always do!

Sincerely,

Sheryl Kubiak, Ph.D., M.S.W.
Dean and Professor, School of Social Work