Students, faculty participate in Social Work Day the the Capitol

NATCHITOCHES - Students and faculty from Northwestern State University's Department of Social Work participated in the National Association Social Workers-Louisiana Lobby Day at the state capitol in Baton Rouge April 15. The day's itinerary included advocacy training, guest speakers and a resource fair. State Rep. C. Travis Johnson addressed the State House of Representatives to proclaim the day Social Work Day.

"Students gained knowledge regarding the Social Work Licensure Compact which would enable social workers to practice across state lines without multiple licenses," said Kirby Peddy, assistant professor. "The day's activities demonstrated to students how to engage in policy practice by advocating for legislation."

Legislative priorities addressed the social work licensure compact, an interstate agreement that will allow social workers to practice across state lines without multiple licenses. The compact will allow social workers with bachelor's master's and clinical licenses to serve clients in participating states.

Also addressed were telesupervision to ensure equity, accessibility and effectiveness in professional development and service delivery; increased provider rates for behavioral health services in Medicaid; social work workforce recruitment, retention and growth as key to advancing the social work profession in Louisiana and equity, health and human rights issues.

"Social Work Day activities sparked my interest in policy engagement even more. It encouraged me to hopefully make changes related to state policies in the future," said Social Work Major Alyssa Stanley of Oakdale.

"Spending time in the capitol and hearing items brought to the House of Representatives floor made me realize that you have to look at the bigger picture when it comes to legislation," said Social Work Major Mackenzie Smith of Livingston.

Information on NSU's Department of Social Work is available at https://www.nsula.edu/socialwork/.