Department of Social Work hosts Social Work Month celebration

Department of Social Work hosts Social Work Month celebration

The history and significance of social workers were honored with a celebration at Alcorn State University.

In honor of March being Social Work Month, the Department of Social Work at Alcorn hosted a celebration program honoring those who dedicate their careers to the welfare of others. The program, titled “Social Work Month Celebration: Social Workers Stand Up,” was held Tuesday, March 21 in Dumas Hall. Regina Lacking, regional director for the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services, Region III-South, was the keynote speaker.

Lacking explained to the students how important it is for them to understand the history of their future profession.

“Knowing the history of social work helps them to understand the foundation of the profession,” said Lacking. “It’s critical for all future social workers to be knowledgeable of how far the field has come.”

For social workers, Lacking said that adhering to their code of ethics is critical to their success.

“It is important that all social workers know the code of ethics and why they exist. We are here to help, not to do harm. So they must become familiar with the basic foundational principles that are in our code of ethics.”

Dr. Dorothy Idleburg, chair and professor in the Department of Social Work, was pleased with the information given at the celebration.

“It was very exciting to celebrate this occasion,” said Idleburg. “The program provided students with information on issues of advocacy, practice and community involvement.”