Lincoln University Social Work Majors Shine at BPD Conference

Three Lincoln University students — Kelvin Osei, Deyana Chism, Alicia Malone — attended the 42nd Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors (BPD) Conference on March 12-15.

Thanks to the support of the College of Arts and Sciences and the faculty-led student travel program, three undergraduate social work majors from Lincoln University recently attended the 42^nd Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors (BPD) Conference, accompanied by Dr. Amber Bell, director of BSW Program. The students also volunteered and presented posters during the conference. This annual conference, known for its focus on innovative practices and professional development, provided an excellent platform for students to engage with peers and experts in the field.

LU student Kelvin Osei presents his poster, "Serving Incarcerated Persons: An Exploration of Lincoln University’s Prison Education Program."

The conference, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 12-15, brought together students from various universities to discuss current trends, challenges and opportunities in social work education. The Lincoln University students—Deyana Chism, Alicia Malone and Kelvin Osei—were thrilled to represent their institution and gain insights that would enhance their academic and professional journeys.

One of the key benefits of attending the conference was the opportunity to network with fellow students and professionals. The Lincoln University trio took full advantage of this, engaging in discussions that broadened their understanding of social work practices across the country.

Alicia Malone and her poster, "Addressing Veterans Homelessness: An Analysis of the HUD–VASH Program and Other Housing Solutions."

The participation of these three social work majors in the BPD Student Conference exemplifies Lincoln University’s commitment to providing students with valuable learning experiences outside the traditional classroom setting. With the guidance of Dr. Amber Bell, who co-facilitated a workshop for social work program directors, and the insights gained from the conference, these students are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to the field of social work.

This experience not only enhances their educational journey but also inspires them to become advocates for positive change in their communities.

Deyana Chism and her poster, "Reducing Stress and Increasing Success: Acclimating First-Year College Students to Their New Environment."

While at the conference, Dr. Bell co-presented Shaping the Future Together: Engaging Social Work Program Directors in Developing a Formal Mentoring Program alongside Kristina Gordon (California Baptist University), Chris Streidl (Slippery Rock University), Hailee Lauritzen (Eastern Michigan University), Jennifer Withrow (Mount St. Joseph University) and Courtney Ruggles (Shawnee State University).

Dr. Amber Bell (third from right), pictured with workshop co-facilitators.