75 years of social work
Since being established as a major in 1944, nearly 700 alumni have graduated from Bluffton with a social work degree. In that time, four social work faculty members have been granted emeriti status for their contributions to the development and enhancement of the program.
Starting with just two classes, Child Welfare and Public Welfare, Bluffton’s social
work program began in 1944. Led by 1934 Bluffton education graduate Carl Smucker,
the first social work graduates, three in total, received their diplomas in 1948.
Establishing the program >
Since Bluffton’s program is nationally accredited, students can utilize their skills,
not just in Ohio, but across the country. Many graduates are serving their communities
and the world as social workers, but others, who graduated as social work majors,
are using those same skills in a variety of ways.
Always a need >
“The best advice that I got was from a t-shirt found in a thrift shop when I was in
high school. The t-shirt read ‘Bloom where you are planted.’ For me, this suggests
no matter where you are, take opportunities to be your best. During times of struggle
or confusion, I always tend to go back to this quote.”
Read more >
Jean Szabo, professor emeritus of music, is the recipient of the 2019 Faculty/Staff
Service Award. The award recognizes a former faculty or staff member who fostered
a spirit of community on campus through relationships with others, including students
whom the recipient mentored and inspired.
More about Jean Szabo >
After a long and continuing career in the field, Carrie (Ream ’85) Woodruff, MAOM ’02, received
the 2019 Professional Achievement Award. The award distinguishes a graduate who has
continued the pursuit of intellection growth and has explored creative avenues in
his or her chosen field.
More about Carrie Woodruff >