Social Work Month — March 2025
Celebrated annually in March, Social Work Month is an opportunity to raise awareness of and support the essential work we do and the role we play in society. Each year, specific themes address social issues, promote our goals, and recognize the unique traits that make us effective. The theme for 2025, "Compassion + Action," for example, is a great way to describe social workers!
Social Work Month was first introduced by the National Association of Social Workers in 1963 and was formally signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. This month-long celebration allows us to reflect on our rich history, spotlight the work of our colleagues, and inspire new generations to consider social work as a career path. Social work combines a natural human desire to improve society with a commitment to research, academic excellence, and a strong code of ethics. We are individuals who care deeply, make a difference, and collaborate effectively to solve problems.
This month is your opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments and fierce dedication of our profession and those who support our work. Use this month to share accomplishments and give shout-outs to your mentors, colleagues and newly-minted social workers. And remember to take a moment to celebrate your own legacy as a social worker, and your commitment and contributions to creating a better, more just society for everyone.
Happy Social Work Month
Get Involved
Social Work Month Kick-Off
Join us as we celebrate the social work profession. Dean Beth Angell will give remarks, and we will have food and Social Work Month swag available.
Monday, March 10, 2025, 12 PM
SSWB McGregor Commons
Self-Care for Social Workers Workshop
Self-care is a professional and ethical obligation for social workers. What does it look like to engage in regular, intentional, effective self-care? In this 60-minute online workshop, we will explore what self-care looks like in practice and share specific strategies to manage stress and improve well-being. Students who attend this session may count this workshop as field hours with approval from their field instructor.
Macro Pathway Faculty Panel
Macro Pathway Career Week begins with a panel discussion on “What happened to the Macro in Social Work.” Panelists include Associate Professors M. Candace Christensen, Professor Andy Grogan-Kaylor, Assistant Professors Greer Hamilton and Sunggeun (Ethan) Park, and Clinical Associate Professor Justin Hodge. Bring your questions for an interaction Q&A session. This event will take place in person and online.
Self-Care for Social Workers Workshop
Self-care is a professional and ethical obligation for social workers. What does it look like to engage in regular, intentional, effective self-care? In this 60-minute online workshop, we will explore what self-care looks like in practice and share specific strategies to manage stress and improve well-being. Students who attend this session may count this workshop as field hours with approval from their field instructor.
Macro Pathway Employer Career Fair
Connect with leading employers in macro social work. This career fair allows students to explore internships and job openings, network with hiring professionals, and learn about macro roles in diverse organizations. The field office and macro pathway leads will also be present to discuss field placement opportunities.
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 12 PM - 1 PM
SSWB Atrium
International Social Work
This online session, in collaboration with the International Center, will feature discussions on global social work careers, challenges, and strategies for international practice.
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 12 PM - 1 PM
Online
Alumni Panel on Macro Social Work
Hear from SSW alumni who have successfully built careers in macro practice. This panel will provide real-world advice on job searching, skill building and career growth in policy, advocacy and leadership roles. This event is online.
Social Work Month Celebration
Join us as we recognize the impactful and compassionate work of social workers! Following the reception, we invite you to take part in a special stadium experience at Michigan Stadium.
Thursday, March 20, 2025, 4:30 PM
Reception: 4:30-6:30 PM
Stadium experience: 6:30-7:30 PM
Reception: 4:30-6:30 PM
Stadium experience: 6:30-7:30 PM
Postma Family Clubhouse
U-M Golf Course
500 East Stadium Blvd.
U-M Golf Course
500 East Stadium Blvd.
Macro Pathway Week Closing Celebration and Networking Lunch
Wrap up the week with social work leaders, faculty and peers. Make connections, engage in conversations and take home resources to support your career journey.
Self-Care for Social Workers Workshop
Self-care is a professional and ethical obligation for social workers. What does it look like to engage in regular, intentional, effective self-care? In this 60-minute online workshop, we will explore what self-care looks like in practice and share specific strategies to manage stress and improve well-being. Students who attend this session may count this workshop as field hours with approval from their field instructor.
SSW Career Services Alumni Talk
Join us online as Kayla Schindler Mallires, MSW ’20, discusses her journey post-MSW at a local non-profit working across micro, mezzo and macro practice.
SSW Career Services Licensure Presentation
Join Director of Career Services Michelle Woods for an online presentation about social work licensure and exam preparation.
SSW Career Services Alumni Talk
Join us online as psychotherapist Matt Zimmer, MSW ’06, discusses his journey from a post-MSW clinical fellowship to a private practitioner.
Self-Care for Social Workers Workshop
Self-care is a professional and ethical obligation for social workers. What does it look like to engage in regular, intentional, effective self-care? In this 60-minute online workshop, we will explore what self-care looks like in practice and share specific strategies to manage stress and improve well-being. Students who attend this session may count this workshop as field hours with approval from their field instructor.