Annually the Wayne State University School of Social Work offers students the opportunity to be recognized for their achievements and contributions both in and out of the classroom via the NASW-Michigan Student of the Year and Student Excellence of Social Justice awards. Applications for both awards are available mid-winter semester and will be shared with students, faculty and staff via email and other social media platforms.

NASW-Michigan Social Work Student of the Year Award

Annually, one or more BSW and MSW students are nominated to receive the NASW-Michigan Social Work Student of the Year Award. 

Eligibility

Recipients are selected based on the following criteria:

• Demonstrated leadership qualities (active member of student organizations)
• Contribution to the positive image of a social work program
• Commitment to political and community activities
• Success in academic performance
• Degree to which the student represents the professional ethics of social work as defined in the NASW Code of Ethics
• NASW member

Review

A panel composed of the Associate/Assistant Dean, BSW and MSW coordinators and academic advisors review all nominations and select the BSW and MSW student of the year award recipeints for the WSU School of Social Work. 

Recognition

Each student will be recognized during a regional awards ceremony held each spring. Awardees will be able to give a short (<5 minute) speech addressing their accomplishments, advocacy work and/or thank yous. Awardees will also be published in The Bridge newsletter, and highlighted on the NASW-Michigan website. 

Recent recipients

Student Excellence of Social Justice Award 

Launched in 2021-22 academic year by the Coalition of Community Social Workers (CCSW) student organization, the Student Excellence of Social Justice Award spotlights BSW, MSW, and PhD student's social justice accomplishments, achievements, and excellence outside of regular coursework completed within the WSU School of Social Work and university. Applications should demonstrate leadership, advocacy, and/or community building, planning, or service activities that advance social justice. Up to five students will be selected annually to receive the award. 

Eligibility

The award is open to full- and part-time WSU School of Social Work students. Recipients are selected based on demonstrated leadership, advocacy, and/or community building, planning or service activities that advance social justice outside of the classroom.

Review

A panel composed of the Associate/Assistant Dean, BSW and MSW coordinators and academic advisors review all nominations and select the BSW and MSW student of the year award recipeints for the WSU School of Social Work. 

Recognition

Each student will be recognized during the annual WSU School of Social Work Graduation Celebration event held each spring. Recipients will also be recognized on the WSU School of Social Work website. 

Recent recipients

For additional information on these awards and the application cycles, contact the Office of Admissions and Student Services at sswadmissions@wayne.edu or 313-577-4409.