More than 130 social workers from across the state gathered at the Oklahoma Capitol in February for the National Association of Social Workers, Oklahoma Chapter (NASW-OK) Legislative Day.
Social work students and faculty from Northwestern Oklahoma State University were in attendance to learn about legislative issues impacting the social work profession and the populations they serve. Legislative Day provides an opportunity for social work students and practitioners to engage in macro-level practice and learn effective ways to advocate on the behalf of others. This day assists the students in learning to analyze and formulate policies that advance social well-being and develop ways for effective policy action.
“Legislative Day provides the opportunity for participation in public policy issues and social justice advocacy, both key components of social work education and practice” said Dr. Kylene Rehder, chair of the department of social work.
The day started with a tour of the Oklahoma State Capitol and a welcome message from NASW-OK Board President Frannie Pryor, followed by Kara Joy McKee, an outreach specialist from the Oklahoma Policy Institute who presented on effectively approaching legislators. A legislative panel comprised of Rep. Carol Bush, Rep. Emily Virgin, Rep. Jason Dunnington, Sen. Adam Pugh and Sen. David Holt was moderated by Andy Moore, executive director of Let’s Fix This, Inc. The day concluded with opportunities to engage with legislators and closing remarks by the executive director of NASW-OK, Mary Jo Kinzie.
Social work students who were in attendance included: Mirissa Branine, Woodward senior; Jessica Goodballet, Mooreland sophomore; Elizabeth Fox-Shipley, Laverne sophomore; Codi Harding, Enid senior; Dana Kausek, Enid senior; Jessi Neal, Hobart senior; Marsellia Rael, Woodward junior; Levi Sanders, Goltry senior; Lauren Shriver, Hunter junior; and Denise Tyrell, Enid junior.
Jennifer Pribble, assistant professor of social work, also was in attendance along with Rehder.
For more information about Northwestern’s social work programs contact Rehder at (580) 327-8135 or kdrehder@nwosu.edu.