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Our Mission and Goals  
MISSION
The Avila University Social Work Program seeks to provide a values-based education, grounded in the liberal arts, which prepares competent generalist BSW practitioners for effective social work practice that integrates knowledge, skills and values, and/or to enter graduate studies. In addition, the Social Work Program seeks to develop social work knowledge and provide leadership in the broader social work community.


VALUES

  • Excellence in teaching and learning
  • Importance of human relationships
  • Worth, dignity and potential of each human being
  • Diversity and its expression
  • Service to others
  • Competence and integrity
  • Social and economic justice
  • Lifelong learning

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Goal 1:
To prepare students for ethical, generalist practice at the BSW level and/or for graduate studies by providing a quality educational foundation that teaches the knowledge and skills needed to work with systems of all sizes.
»  Apply critical thinking skills within the context of professional social work practice.
»  Practice within the values and ethics of the social work profession.
»  Apply the knowledge and skills of generalist social work to systems of all sizes.
»  Use theoretical frameworks supported by empirical evidence to understand individual development and behavior
     across the life span and the interactions among individuals and families, groups, organizations, and communities.
»  Critically evaluate research studies and apply findings to practice, and under supervision, evaluate student’s
     own practice interventions and those of other relevant systems.
»  Use communication skills differentially with a variety of client populations, colleagues and members of
     the community.
»  Function within the structure of organizations and service delivery systems and, under supervision, seek
    needed organizational change.

Goal 2:
Prepare students for strengths and empowerment practice, which respects and honors diversity.
»  Practice without discrimination and with respect, knowledge, and skills related to client’s age, class, color, culture,
     disability, ethnicity, family structure, marital status, national origin, race, sex, and sexual orientation
»  Understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and apply the strategies of change
     that advance social and economic justice.

Goal 3:
Prepare students who are sensitive and committed to issues of social justice, and social work values and ethics.
»  Understand the history of the social work profession and its current structure and issues.
»  Analyze, formulate and influence social policies.

Goal 4:
Instill in students an awareness of the value of lifelong learning and professional growth in order to maintain professional competence and better serve their client population.
»  Use supervision, consultation, and continuing education appropriate to generalist practice.
»  Demonstrate commitment to professional growth and lifelong learning.

Goal 5:
Maintain collaborative relationships with social work practitioners, groups and organizations in the broader community and provide leadership in promoting ongoing professional development. (Faculty/Program Goal)
»  Develop and strengthen faculty presence in Kansas/Missouri social work community.
»  Avila Social Work Program and faculty will provide continuing education, consultation, and support to the
    broader social work community.