USI Social Work Department celebrates major milestones in 2024

University of Southern Indiana social work faculty are thrilled to celebrate the remarkable milestones of the USI Social Work Program—50 years of social work at USI, 40 years of the Bachelor of Social Work degree and 30 years of Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, alongside the inaugural year of the University’s online MSW option. These achievements represent not just a long-standing commitment to excellence in social work education but also a profound dedication to making a positive impact in the Evansville community and Tri-state region. 

For five decades, the USI Social Work Department, housed in the College of Liberal Arts, has been a cornerstone in shaping compassionate and skilled social work professionals who are dedicated to improving lives and fostering social justice. In 1974, shaped from increasing needs in the community and advocacy from community leaders, social work at USI began as a concentration in sociology. Ten years later in 1984, the Bachelor of Social Work degree emerged with a dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable populations. The MSW program, now celebrating its 30th anniversary, has built upon this foundation, preparing advanced practitioners to tackle complex social issues with expertise and empathy.  

This year, the 50th anniversary, is particularly exciting as the College of Liberal Arts introduces its online MSW option. The online MSW expands access to our high-quality education and allows faculty to reach a broader audience. This new format reflects the University’s commitment to adapting to the needs of students and the ever-evolving landscape of social work.  

“The Social Work Department at USI plays a crucial role in the Evansville community, providing essential services and support through our undergraduates and graduates who work tirelessly to address social challenges, advocate for vulnerable populations and drive meaningful change,” says Dr. Jay Dickerson, Chair of the Social Work Department. “As we mark these significant milestones, we celebrate the legacy of our past, the achievements of our present and the promising future of social work education at USI. Our journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of our community and the transformative power of social work.” 

The Social Work program, in collaboration with the local community, trains students to help others help themselves through teaching theory and skills in the classroom and in the field. It is also designed to ingrain compassion and empathy in all students so they can effectively help their community and learn to adapt to new social issues that arise.  

“My time in the Social Work Department has been a profound journey of growth, compassion and purpose,” says Aaron Pryor BSW '10, M '14, Assistant Director of Counseling and Psychological Services and Adjunct in Social Work. “From where I stand, the future looks bright, and it will continue to do so as long as programs like the one at USI empower those they serve.”   

This Spring, social work faculty, students and alumni will gather for the annual Social Work Conference to celebrate these milestones and learn from other social work professionals and organizations.  

To learn more about the USI Social Work Department and its achievements, visit the USI Social Work website.