COVID-19 A N DRACISM THE COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORK RESPONDS TO TWIN PANDEMICS - The Ohio State University College ...
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FALL 2020
T H E O H I O STAT E U N I V E R S I T Y C O L L E G E O F S O C I A L WO R K
THE STILLMAN
AND
THE COLLEGE OF
TO TWIN PANDEMICS
SOCIAL WORK RESPONDS
COVID-19
RACISM
FREE CEU TRAININGS DRAW RECORD NUMBERS Since September, more than 5,000 people from all over the country have taken advantage of free online CEU trainings offered by CSW Continuing Education. Are you one of them? Visit our website to register today. csw.osu.edu/continuing-education
The Stillman provides
the latest news from
The Ohio State University
College of Social Work
and highlights the
ways in which our
faculty, staff, alumni
and students make a
difference in our society.
LEADERSHIP
Tom Gregoire, Dean
Eric Bode
Ramona Denby-Brinson
Lisa Durham
Bridget Freisthler
Elayne M. Siegfried
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
AND WRITER
Frankie E. Jones-Harris
WRITERS
Stewart Blake
Kate M. Carey
Stephen David
Lisa Durham
Adam King COVER STORY
Melissa L. Weber
DESIGN
8
Social workers respond to
Jason W. Duffield
COVID-19 and racism
PHOTOGRAPHY When two pandemics hit, social workers hit back.
Stewart Blake
Jo McCulty
Logan Wallace F E AT U R E S
5 A curriculum reformed
Through the eyes of inclusivity, an extensive review and renewal takes an
already strong curriculum to the next level.
13 How are parents coping during COVID-19?
One CSW researcher studies a not-so-surprising trend revealing the
relationship between stress and aggressive discipline.
14 Social work dean chairs university task force
Appointed by Ohio State, Dean Gregoire helps lead the university in
WE’D LOVE TO
HEAR FROM YOU! examining issues related to racism and racial disparities.
Letters to the editor
and alumni updates 16 NASW leads a profession
can be sent to: During turmoil and uncertainty, social workers can turn to their professional
association as a partner and resource for bold, visionary leadership.
The Stillman
The Ohio State University 20 Stepping up and out during chaos
College of Social Work From photography and protests, to tea and self care, surviving and serving
301 Stillman Hall during the pandemics take on a different look and meaning for everyone.
1947 N. College Road
Columbus, OH 43210
614/292-5300 ALSO INSIDE
theStillman@osu.edu
TOM TALKS................................................ 4 SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT.................24
MWANAFUNZI........................................... 6 BLACK GIRL MAGIC...............................25
RETURN TO CAMPUS.............................. 7 ALUMNI ACROSS THE COUNTRY.......26
2020 CENSUS.........................................12 DONOR SPOTLIGHT..............................28
@osucsw ALUMNI HALL OF FAME.......................22 CSW WORKS FROM HOME..................30
csw.osu.edu
[ A NOTE FROM THE DEAN ]
TOM TALKS
DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS,
When I last wrote you in 2019 for this magazine, I never
imagined the world as it is today.
COVID-19 ravaged our country killing more than
230,000 thus far and shutting down our economy.
The murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor gave
rise to protests nationwide. The financial impact of
the virus, and generations of systemic oppression, are
devastating. We are in the midst of two pandemics.
One is emergent—COVID-19. The other is centuries
old—racism and inequity. And as is always the case, both
pandemics are hardest felt by the poor, oppressed and
disenfranchised members of our society.
Despite what can be overwhelming emotions so many of
us are experiencing, there is a path forward. Our challenge
as a profession, and as decent human beings, is to respond
to the impact of both pandemics. And that is happening.
Although obscured by a host of bad news, there are
powerful stories of compassion, kindness and leadership
for good. Some of those stories are in this issue of
The Stillman. And you know countless more yourselves.
We are among the thousands across our country who
have donated, volunteered or otherwise stepped forward
to help those in need, and to call attention to injustice.
The twin pandemics are a call to create a more inclusive
and just society. And social work is answering that call.
Many have taken to the protest to support a Black Lives
Matter movement that challenges us as individuals and
institutions to explore our own and society’s contributions
to systemic oppression and racism. Despite reports to the
contrary, the country has not descended into violence. In
fact, a recent study found that 93 percent of all protests this
spring and summer were nonviolent.
Ruth Bader Ginsberg invited us to “Fight for the things
that you care about but do it in a way that will lead others
“Our challenge as to join you.” I encourage you to invite others to join us all
in the possibility of a different world. Let me know what
a profession, and advocacy you’ve been engaged in. Your commitment to
good never ceases to amaze me.
as decent human
beings, is to respond
Best Wishes,
to the impact of
both pandemics.”
Tom Gregoire, MSW, PhD
Dean
4 CSW.OSU.EDU
Moving this quickly took daily
communications, long hours, and the
skills and talents of compassionate people,
she says. “But what we did not anticipate,
which is so good and so rich, was that as we
moved forward, we supported one another
with healthy interpersonal relationships.
We checked in with one another honoring
how vulnerable we are in these hard
conversations. The college has always done
a good job and now we see this in action
because it’s sustained in our culture, built
COLLEGE COMBATS COVID-19, into the fabric of who we are.”
All three program directors—Mo-Yee
CALLS FOR RECONCILIATION Lee, PhD program, Jennie Babcock,
undergraduate program, and Theresa
Hazelwood, MSW program, worked with
T “This is a critical
he College of Social Work exudes faculty and community instructors and
empathy and compassion. the Educational Technology team to
Embeds them in college culture juncture where we can move courses online.
and infuses its curriculum with create national leaders “Many students are also caregivers for
them. When the confluence of COVID-19 children or other family members and
and racial reconciliation pandemics hit, for social change.” preferred the safety of home learning
faculty, staff and students stepped up to – KATHY LECHMAN as the pandemic hit. The Educational
show who they are and what they’re made Technology team helped us fine-tune the
of to transform how learning occurs. online program, and working with the
Just after the winter holidays, the The push for technology has some curriculum director and faculty, we were
college began creating scenarios for a additional benefits, including the college able to share tips and resources. For our
vastly different world, one hampered by developing a robust technology-based community lecturers, it lessened their
a potential virus. When the university care (telehealth) training module this stress and allowed them to feed off each
closed in March, the college pivoted summer that is available to all students other as we worked,” says Hazelwood.
to continue high-quality instruction entering field placement. The college, led The Kirwan Institute for the Study of
delivered via technology. by its Field Education team and assistant Race and Ethnicity is in the process of
Faculty and Educational Technology professor Lauren McInroy, has increased offering a group studies course jointly
staff quickly revamped undergraduate students’ options for virtual work and with the college. Dr. Kathy Lechman,
and doctoral courses to join the master’s are developing a suite of simulation associate director of the institute, sees
degree, which was offered both online programming so students can apply the exciting opportunities arising.
and face to face. Trainings were created knowledge they are acquiring. The college “This is a critical juncture where we
for Zoom, a video conferencing system, is using blended learning this fall with the can create national leaders for social
and Carmen, the university’s learning majority of its 252 sections being offered change. Most people were horrified
management system. Faculty had been on a fully remote basis. about what happened to George Floyd
encouraged to move instructional As the country erupted in a loud and if some positive things can come
content and grades into Carmen for call for racial reconciliation, the from that tragedy, people may realize
student convenience in case of illness or a college was also already examining its that while their life seems fine, it’s not
missed class, so many were comfortable curriculum—asking questions about fine for everyone.”
with this technology. Other faculty what is taught and how it is taught. The institute conducts research and
substituted in-person classes with Zoom Conversations among faculty and provides training in areas such as implicit
classes. Teaching supports were created students about the importance of an bias, civic engagement, cultural humility
and new tools were introduced, like Padlet, inclusive curriculum are taking place, and allyship. The Kirwan Institute and the
an interactive sticky note, and a tool for as well as preparations for an extensive college plan to expand their collaborative
making quizzes, according to Byron Roush, curriculum review and renewal efforts to create a General Education
director of educational technology. process. Open, honest convenings course for the new “Citizenship for a Just
“We’re not going back,” says Kelley and spaces were created for faculty and Diverse World” theme.
Cupp, instructional designer. “I think and students to share ideas for a more As events unfold in the United
our future is going to hold a lot more inclusive curriculum, according to States, the college remains committed
creative ideas and open mindedness to Ramona Denby-Brinson, professor and to continue adjusting the curriculum to
approaches to learning.” associate dean for academic affairs. meet the needs of today’s world. z
FALL 2020 5
In June, Worthy, joined by
Mwanafunzi members Raven Lynch and
Crystal Vincent, directed a co-facilitated
student and faculty panel that tackled
tough questions and challenged the
audience to join in conversation that
pushed comfort levels and led to
Mwanafunzi students (now current
CSW alumni) and Co-Advisor LaVada
impassioned ideas. This student-led
Washington (center) attending the Zoom conversation for all college faculty,
National Association of Black Social staff and students addressed racism and
Workers Conference in Atlanta, April 2019. microaggressions, allowing students to
discuss the outpouring of global support
to end racial violence, systematic racism
BLACK STUDENT GROUP HELPS FUTURE and oppressive systems. More than
100 people participated, and Dr. Michelle
SOCIAL WORKERS CARRY THE LOAD, Kaiser and Advocacy Director Steve David
served as faculty and staff facilitators.
LEAD OTHERS TOWARD CHANGE Service projects on and off campus
are part of Mwanafunzi’s mission, too.
Serving as mentors for the Columbus
“IT’S SO IMPORTANT to have organizations In July, Mwanafunzi joined Chapter of NABSW, providing
like Mwanafunzi for Black students. The two key players in social work to host Thanksgiving dinners at Victory
oppression can be difficult to carry on the webinar “Racism in Ohio social Homeless Shelter and gifting Christmas
your own,” says Derin Steward (MSW ‘19), work: A conversation with the National Stockings for children at Godman Guild
former Mwanafunzi president and Association of Social Workers and the are a few examples.
mitigation specialist at the Office of the National Association of Black Social In February, Mwanafunzi also
Ohio Public Defender. Workers.” The Zoom event looked partnered with the college’s Diversity
Swahili for “student,” Mwanafunzi gives at social work from the inside and Work Group to host conversations to
social work students of color a structure to welcomed over 200 participants from amplify Black voices and experiences in
exchange ideas, participate in and sponsor various agencies across Ohio. More honor and recognition of Black History
activities that provide academic support “courageous conversations” related Month. The topics included “Imposter
and serve as a resource. The organization to racism are slated for the fall as the Syndrome” led by Nekyla Hawkins
strives for unity and cohesiveness while organization continues to collaborate (BSSW ’19), “History of Violence and
also allowing members to uplift, support with NABSW and NASW. Trauma in Communities of Color” led
and motivate each other as they continue by Steward, “Racial Battle Fatigue: an
to fight against racism and systems and Intersectional Lens,” led by Candace
practices that plague the Black community. “In Mwanafunzi, we Cooper (MSW ’19), and “Hair,
Mwanafunzi emerged during an earlier continue doing the so what? Hair and Self-esteem in College
time of civil unrest. It was established Women” led by Jenee Lee (MSW ’19).
during the 1970s, during which time anti-racist work College staff members LaVada
Professor Charles O. Ross Jr. served as a at our jobs, field Washington and Bryanna Stigger serve as
faculty advisor for the organization. Ross Mwanafunzi advisors.
was known as a candid critic of systemic placements and even “Black Lives Matter is so much more
issues within police departments across in the classroom” than calling out police brutality. The
the country, racial profiling and excessive movement has shed light on the ways
– DERIN STEWARD
force toward blacks. Those who knew racism has been perpetuated throughout
him said he was fearless during a time of history and remains alive and well in our
great social upheavals and that his beliefs “Connecting with NABSW and being a systems today,” says Steward. “There is
and actions inspired the next generation Mwanafunzi member has been wonderful,” systemic racism in our criminal justice,
to speak up even when it might be says Mwanafunzi President and BSSW health care and education systems—and
unpopular to do so. honors student Sly Worthy Jr. “It has not all other systems that affect our everyday
Never has the organization been only given me a brave and safe space to lives. In Mwanafunzi, we continue doing
more relevant and its racial lens more express myself but a space where we can the anti-racist work at our jobs, field
important than today. all enjoy and embrace one another.” placements and even in the classroom.” z
6 CSW.OSU.EDU
As students returned to campus this fall, Dr. Ramona Denby-Brinson and CSW student
worker Laurent Calero and others manned a welcome table in the Stillman Hall lobby to
answer questions, provide directions and reinforce health precautions. Students received
“University leadership
welcome kits complete with sanitizer, masks and a thermometer.
knew how vital
Campus stays safe in-person instruction
is to providing a full
despite COVID-19 academic experience.”
– AMY FAIRCHILD
OHIO STATE STUDENTS, staff and faculty “We are constantly evaluating what efforts to stay safe and healthy,” says
were welcomed to campus with a mix approaches will best serve our students and Provost Bruce A. McPheron.
of online, in-person and hybrid classes, broader community, understanding that Additionally, six tents on campus
multiple health and safety protocols, and our response will continue to evolve with allow outdoor classes that safely support
a revised term schedule. the pandemic, and with additional scientific creative courses like dance and theater.
There was no autumn break or information about COVID-19,” she adds. The campus guidelines and
Thanksgiving break. Labor Day and Personal protection equipment (PPE) requirements were created by the
Veterans Day holidays remained in kits, enhanced outdoor spaces, limited class COVID-19 Transition Task Force and
place. Final exams are scheduled for sizes and additional cleaning of high-traffic informed by the Centers for Disease
December 7–11. No date or format has been areas are among the safety protocols Control and Prevention (CDC), the Ohio
announced for autumn commencement, implemented this term. Residence hall Department of Health (ODH) and other
typically held in mid-December. students received PPE kits as they moved authorities. The university created a
“University leadership knew how vital in, and kits were provided free to all students, public dashboard providing daily updates
in-person instruction is to providing a faculty and staff when they returned to at safeandhealthy.osu.edu/dashboard/
full academic experience, and we looked campus. The kits include one disposable measures-and-interpretations.
for scientifically sound ways to balance mask, two reusable masks, a thermometer, “Offering our students, staff, faculty
educational goals with policies and disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer. and the public an easy-to-digest
guidance that would best protect public All Ohio State community members dashboard of information is critical to
health,” says Amy Fairchild, dean of Ohio were required to take the Buckeye Pledge maintaining transparency about what is
State’s College of Public Health and leader to follow safe practices during the pandemic. happening on and around campus, and
of the group of experts who continue to “Taking the training and pledge as we will continue to look for ways to refine
analyze data and provide recommendations a community represents our shared and bolster the information found there,”
on keeping campus safe. commitment that we are united in our Fairchild says. z
FALL 2020 7
COVER STORY
CHANGING
WITH
THE
SOCIAL WORKERS’ EFFORTS, VOICES RISE
IN RESPONSE TO PANDEMIC, PROTESTS
WORLD
8 CSW.OSU.EDU
K
ayla Ratcliff grabbed the megaphone—quite the hard work of the college’s faculty, staff,
shocking move for the shy medical social worker—as program directors and students in facing
she rallied the crowd around her. Ratcliff was originally 2020’s challenges.
“Nobody has been in the moment
tasked with logistics. But when one of her fellow leaders we’re currently in together. There’s no
couldn’t make the Black Lives Matter protest at the Ohio Statehouse, map or no right next thing to do. But
Ratcliff found her courage and her voice. all that uncertainty can inspire a lot of
creativity and willingness,” Gregoire adds.
And so it did.
THIS MOMENT WAS TOO IMPORTANT George Floyd’s killing in Minneapolis
not to be heard. was the tinder for a racial justice awakening. LIFE ADJUSTMENT
“Our message for this march was Social workers, already engaged in erasing After the pandemic shut down most
to recognize the countless numbers disparities, began asking themselves what human contact, the LiFEsports Initiative
of Black lives who have been lost to more they could and should be doing. (Learning in Fitness and Education
police brutality and show our support Throw in a worldwide contagion, and through Sports) tried to delay its annual
for racial justice,” says Ratcliff (BSW ’13, the questions that emerged forced social summer camps with the hope that
MSW ’19), who planned the June 27 workers and the College of Social Work to in-person activities could still happen.
social worker–specific protest with fellow rethink how to maintain their meaningful When it was apparent the camps
2019 MSW graduates Lauren Hitchens community connections. for 650 disadvantaged youth would
and Dalia Gheith. “We wanted to bring “We care deeply and spend a great be difficult to stage, Dr. Dawn
our role as social workers to the forefront, deal of time thinking about how people Anderson-Butcher, professor and
that we are agents of change and we have are, how they feel and how to promote executive director of LiFEsports
an obligation to use our voices to speak change. That’s sort of our obsession,” says Teaching/Research; Rebecca
out against injustice.” Dean Tom Gregoire, who praised the Wade-Mdivanian, director of operations;
FALL 2020 9
and Dr. Jerry Davis, director of staff rope or soccer ball). Zumba, dance and instructional guide to go along with the
development in the athletic department healthy lifestyle lessons were part of the online camp programming. The more the
and executive director of LiFEsports curriculum, and the kids created their campers participated, the more points
Service/Outreach, along with their own TikTok videos—a new element for they earned toward prizes such as T-shirts,
partners, refused to give up. the camp. hats and medals.
“The camps are a community resource, LIF paid for the equipment, which Campers practiced using sport
teaching kids life skills, teamwork and Davis got at cost from Nike. Other key instructional videos on a kid-friendly
leadership skills in a safe, engaging space. funders included the City of Columbus, interface, and twice a week the kids
That’s not something you want to put a Columbus Metropolitan Housing would get on Zoom for Chalk Talk social
cork in for a year,” Anderson-Butcher Authority, Alcohol, Drug and Mental skill sessions to keep them engaged. Ohio
says. In fact, LiFEsports was recognized by Health Board of Franklin County, the State sports celebrities hosted Zoom
The Aspen Institute as a 2020 Project Play Northwoods Foundation, Continental chats to motivate the kids. They included
Champion for supporting its vision for Realty, Pitney Bowes Presort Services, former Buckeye Football Coach Urban
youth development. Ohio 4-H and individual donors. Meyer, two-time WNBA champion and
Wade-Mdivanian was talking to LiFEsports’ Beatty Community Center three-time Olympic gold medalist Katie
Stephanie Infante, president of one of camp, which began last year because Smith (who helped distribute equipment
LiFEsports’ top funders, the Lindy Infante youth were being turned away from to 200 families), and Utah Jazz guard
Foundation (LIF), about how she made the popular Ohio State campus-based Mike Conley Jr., a three-time NBA
sure her kids had sporting equipment to camp, remained an in-person event. Sportsmanship Award winner. Parents
keep them busy. What if they could do Forty-eight kids (down from 80 due to and caregivers also had sessions.
the same for the campers while providing COVID-19) followed Columbus Public The virtual camp expanded LiFEsports’
virtual guidance? Health guidelines, and team activities reach. Because proximity to Ohio State
“It hit me that many families wouldn’t were individualized to keep it safe. Kids often determines participation, this
have that privilege of extra income to had access to two meals each day and was the first year any campers from
spare,” Wade-Mdivanian says. They competed in the finale LiFEsports Games. Southwestern City Schools, about
feverishly raised $90,000 for their For the at-home campers, healthy 20 miles south of main campus,
new Sport in a Bag idea so 500 kids boxed food was provided bi-weekly so participated. Keeping kids involved in
could virtually participate. Kids got they wouldn’t miss any meals. Food person will always be important, but
their own bag of equipment to use at and equipment pickup was contactless, Anderson-Butcher, Wade-Mdivanian and
home (a football, basketball, jump and the bags included an at-home Davis are considering a virtual element as
well because of Sport in a Bag’s success.
About 60 percent of the kids who
signed up participated regularly. Some of
the older kids were lost to other electronic
entertainment, and 10- to 12-year-olds
were the most engaged.
“WE CARE DEEPLY
AND SPEND A GREAT
DEAL OF TIME
THINKING ABOUT
HOW PEOPLE
ARE, HOW THEY
FEEL AND HOW TO
PROMOTE CHANGE.
THAT’S SORT OF
OUR OBSESSION.”
– TOM GREGOIRE
10 CSW.OSU.EDU“We learned that everything that “IT HIT ME THAT
happens at in-person camp, happens
at virtual camp, just in a slightly MANY FAMILIES
different format,” Wade-Mdivanian says. WOULDN’T HAVE
“Relationships were built, lessons learned
and friendships made.” THAT PRIVILEGE
Alongside the launch of Sport in a Bag, OF EXTRA INCOME
LiFEsports developed an academic pilot
in partnership with United Way of Central TO SPARE.”
Ohio, the City of Columbus and Columbus – REBECCA WADE-MDIVANIAN
City Schools to see if second-graders could
improve their academic and social skills
before becoming third-graders. The One
Linden Student Success Initiative worked
with Hamilton and Windsor STEM
academies to give 20 students the sports
equipment as well as a Chromebook and
WiFi hotspot to keep.
While attending the virtual sports
camp, kids also had two days of academic
activities that included live instructor
and parent sessions. Only one student
dropped out and another continued to
participate even after moving to Virginia.
“They got more intensive intervention
and removed all these barriers around
technology,” says Anderson-Butcher, who
expects a full evaluation of the pilot later
this year. The LiFEsports team will also be
evaluating Sport in a Bag and the Beatty
program data to continue researching
outcomes from these efforts.
PARTICIPATING POLITICALLY director. “They formed their own opinions among the 136 CRC volunteers to pack
Hours after Ratcliff and the other social and came collectively together as a team and distribute 200 necessity bags filled
workers started chanting in front of the to make an impact on the Columbus with shelf-stable food, toiletries and toilet
statehouse, Stephen Moore arrived with community and hopefully the world.” paper weekly.
17 high school students from LiFEsports’ “We took a quick scan in the
Youth Leadership Academy (YLA). A VOCAL LIFELINE community to figure out what other
After the teens graduate from Katie White (MSW ’20), the director of organizations were doing,” White says.
the sports camps, they meet twice the college’s Age-Friendly Columbus and “We wanted to make sure we didn’t
a month in YLA. In essence, it’s still Franklin County initiative, remembers duplicate efforts, so we honed in on older
teamwork, coupled with college feeling concerned as soon as Ohio adults’ social isolation and the fact they
readiness, leadership skills and career Governor Mike DeWine began locking weren’t going to the grocery store.”
and professional development. Many down the state on March 12. What would Students, mostly graduate-level
students return to assist the camps as happen to an already-isolated older with previous one-on-one consultation
junior counselors. adult population needing to protect itself experience, became seniors’ social
In this instance, they wanted to from COVID-19? lifelines over the phone. Among the first
add their voices to the call for social On Friday the 13th, White met calls, a gentleman shared how fearful
justice. They did all the work to plan with Christine Happel (MSW ’14), he was because the virus was such a
and communicate their participation Clintonville-Beechwold Community large-scale, invisible enemy.
in the June 27 International March for Resources Center (CRC) program director, The students, supervised by
Black Lives, sponsored by the Columbus and the two hashed out a plan to provide Age-Friendly Columbus Assistant Director
African Council (CAC). immediate support. Marisa Sheldon (BSSW ’10, MSW ’11), offered
Some students handed out food and By March 19, they were up and running older adults conversation and connection,
water to protestors; others took part in with funding from the Columbus City not case management or counseling. All
the march, and the CAC recognized their Council and the Franklin County Office students went through suicide prevention
presence on the microphone and in a visit on Aging. Working with many others, they training and could transfer problematic
to their table. marshalled 63 College of Social Work calls to LISWs, who were always available.
“It’s inspiring to see them grow up and students, faculty and staff to launch the “There is a decrease in students who
take ownership in what they believe to be Friendly Phone Line. And the college’s want to work in aging, and not many of the
what’s right,” says Moore, the YLA program students, faculty, staff and alumni were Continued, pg. 15
FALL 2020 11A D V O C AC Y
Social workers count!
ENGAGING THE 2020 CENSUS
THE 2020 CENSUS WILL help shape the need an accurate count. Local, state and work will be impacted by the 2020 count
next decade in America. From political federal boundaries for representation for the next 10 years. The college
representation to billions of dollars in are also drawn using Census data, collaborated with partners from the Ohio
federal funding, engaging the Census was and Congressional representation is Census Advocacy Coalition and All On
a critical opportunity for social workers apportioned using these numbers. The Line to host an in-person workshop
and human service agencies to lay a Despite its importance for communities in February on how to engage agencies
strong foundation for their work going across the country, the 2020 Census and clients in completing the Census.
forward. Recognizing this opportunity, process was also highly politicized. The As the pandemic surfaced in Ohio,
the College of Social Work stepped in to U.S. Supreme Court blocked a citizenship the college’s Educational Technology
help get out the count. question from being added to the Census team worked with these partners and
Census data helps determine how after documents surfaced that revealed a grant from the City of Columbus to
billions of dollars in federal funding political operatives wanted to add develop a self-paced, online continuing
flow into states and communities each this question to suppress the political education training so providers could
year. This looks like $675 billion across representation of people of color. Political obtain this knowledge virtually. In the
the country, and over $33 billion for appointment and operational changes have end, over 200 social workers completed
the state of Ohio to support things like also threatened the process throughout. these trainings to help them make sure
Medicaid, SNAP, housing vouchers Recognizing the importance and the people they work with are counted
and Head Start. If social workers want political turmoil around the Census, the and have access to the resources and
communities to have access to crucial College of Social Work stepped in to offer representation they are entitled to for
health- and safety-net programs, they guidance and clarity to practitioners whose the next decade. z
12 CSW.OSU.EDURESEARCH
CSW RESEARCH HITS
PARENTAL STRESS IS UP AND NEW HEIGHTS
SO IS PUNITIVE PARENTING In the past eight years, research
funding in the College of Social
Work has increased from about
$400,000 to more than $7 million.
“We are particularly proud of
some major grants from the National
Institutes of Health and Robert Wood
Johnson Foundation,” says Bridget
Freisthler, PhD, professor and
associate dean for Research and
Faculty Development.
Freisthler was appointed as
the college’s associate dean for
research in 2017.
“Our faculty love research, but
they need support,” Freisthler
says. She has developed a team
that provides dedicated grant
development support including
copy editing and outside reviews
to offer comments and suggestions
that strengthen proposals.
A
“We have definite research
recent study led by faculty in the “We need to check in with parents,” strengths in the college in aging
College of Social Work revealed says Freisthler. She also noted health and older adults, as well as child
proof of what many thought: the care changes that may be permanent, welfare and substance abuse
pandemic is causing higher such as more telehealth services. Health issues,” Freisthler says. “The
levels of stress among parents. Even more care professionals will need to learn how newest area is food insecurity.”
troubling, the evidence shows more to recognize signs of at-risk children The college is also an important
use of punitive parenting—more yelling, from a distance. participant in the Ohio Consortium
of the National Institutes of Health
stricter punishments—with these higher The study also showed that
Helping to End Addiction Long-term
stress levels. problematic parenting increases with
Initiative, or NIH HEAL, a national
The study included more than alcohol use. interdisciplinary $65 million grant
300 parents who self-reported their to reduce opioid overdose deaths.
behavior three separate times each day via “We see lots of stress Launched in April 2018, the
an application on their smart phone for
a period of six weeks. Parents were asked right now due to the initiative will improve prevention
and treatment strategies for
to report their feelings of stress and the changes caused by opioid misuse and addiction and
the pandemic.”
parenting behaviors they used with their enhance pain management. (More
children at 10 a.m., 3 p.m., and 9 p.m. The information about Ohio State
study was designed and approved prior to – BRIDGET FREISTHLER participants and other members of
the outbreak of COVID-19. the Ohio Consortium is available at
“It was easy for us to move the study “We all see the jokes and memes https://news.osu.edu/ohio-state-led-
online,” explains Bridget Freisthler, PhD, on social media about coping [with consortium-aims-to-reduce-opioid-
professor in the College of Social Work, the pandemic] with a glass of wine,” deaths-by-40-percent.)
“Much of the research underway
associate dean for Research and Faculty she says. “We know that alcohol
in the college is community-based
Development and principal investigator. consumption is up and all jokes aside,
participatory research,” adds
“We see lots of stress right now due to the this may be a real concern.”
Freisthler. “We have other faculty
changes caused by the pandemic. I want There is a correlation with an increase who are looking more theoretically at
to tell people, don’t worry about more in alcohol use and an increase in punitive broader patterns of people’s behavior.
screen time [for the kids] if it helps your punishment for children in the home. They are trying to understand the
overall ability to cope with the changes.” The good news is a correlation between underlying mechanisms.”
Freisthler and her research colleagues leaving the house and a decrease in stress.
are concerned about the potential “A change in venue decreases stress,”
increase of child abuse during the says Freisthler. “I want to encourage TO LEARN MORE about the
pandemic. People who are mandated to parents to get out of the house and take research being conducted at the
report abuse such as teachers, doctors and a walk every day. Or just go for a drive. college, visit https://csw.osu.edu/
nurses have less contact with children. These things will help.” n research/research-news-events.
FALL 2020 13Also consistent with its tradition of
collaborating with other campus units to
provide learning opportunities for students,
faculty and staff, the college is working to
create and spread a climate of anti-racism
which includes developing a course,
“Becoming Anti-racist,” to be offered to
juniors, seniors and graduate students.
Beginning spring 2021, this course
will explore an intersecting approach
to unpacking race, cognition and
structural racism with an emphasis on
civic engagement, race-based trauma
and healing, and becoming anti-racist.
It will be facilitated by College of Social
Work faculty and staff, Ohio State’s
Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and
Ethnicity, and Ohio Voice, a non-partisan
organization dedicated to providing
resources and support to nonprofits
working in civic and political engagement.
Additionally, the college’s program
offices, faculty and chief diversity officer
DEAN GREGOIRE APPOINTED TO are developing an anti-racism challenge
involving a cross-sector of the college
UNIVERSITY’S RACISM TASK FORCE community in which growth opportunities
spawned by joining to read, reflect and
engage in action, will be promoted.
ON JUNE 10, 2020, outgoing Ohio State of its students, staff and faculty. The college Likewise, one of the college’s faculty
President Michael V. Drake announced has been intentional and collaborative health experts, Dr. Lisa Raiz, co-hosted
the creation of the Task Force on Racism in efforts to recruit and retain faculty and Race, Health, and Health Care, a seminar
and Racial Inequities, led by Dr. James staff of color and to enroll and graduate with the Ohio State’s College of Medicine.
L. Moore III, vice provost for diversity and students who are racially and ethnically Many probably remember that
inclusion and chief diversity officer, and diverse. For example, 45 percent of its Stillman Hall is centrally located on
Dr. Tom Gregoire, dean of the College of tenure-track professors are people of color. campus and is home to a bus stop. In
Social Work. Charged with examining Additionally, 29 percent of the college’s 2016, Gregoire approved displaying a
racism and racial injustice across the incoming MSW class are students of color, “Black Lives Matter” banner in front of
university, the task force will make specific about 40 percent of its Columbus campus the building. Never one to back down,
recommendations for changes to policies, BSSW students identify as first generation, he ensured that when it was stolen or
processes and practices to make The Ohio and 35 percent of BSSW students are vandalized, another went up.
State University an equitable institution. underrepresented minorities. It is this vision and leadership that will
Since its inception, the task force has The college has strong and trusted benefit the task force and position Ohio
recruited a diverse group of 15 faculty, alliances with both internal community State as a leader in conversation and action
staff and students to work toward a more partners (i.e., Ohio State’s Office of on anti-racism, diversity and inclusion.
equitable Ohio State. From day one, Diversity and Inclusion) and external Gregoire believes the task force
current President Kristina M. Johnson community partners (i.e., Historically will discover, challenge and abolish
has been a stalwart supporter. She is a Black Colleges and Universities—HBCUs institutional and personal practices and
vocal advocate for social justice and racial and Hispanic Serving Institutions—HSIs). policies that perpetuate inequity. And he
equality, as is Gregoire. Over the past These continue to be valued partnerships knows this is a life-long commitment—not
five years, he has been openly vocal and and the college remains committed to a “one-and-done” solution.
active on social media calling attention strengthening educational access and “A successful task force will promote
to the deaths and murders of black and creating inclusive learning environments. a conversation on race and equity that
brown men and women. He was a leader For a number of years the college has attracts those who have been on the
when many others were unsure of the collaborated with the Office of Diversity sidelines thus far,” says Gregoire. “An
avenues they could take. and Inclusion to sponsor speaker’s series important outcome will be our ability to
Under Gregoire’s leadership, the addressing important topics on race and identify, challenge and change systemic
College of Social Work has made equity including Dr. Ibram Kendi in 2018 practices and policies that build in
significant strides to increase the diversity and Rev. William Barber in 2020. disadvantage and bias.” z
14 CSW.OSU.EDUChanging with the world
Continued from pg. 11
students had field placements with older
adults before this,” Sheldon says. “With a
doubling of our older adult population, we
need experts in the field, and the students
said it really opened their eyes.”
The CRC, which has a food bank
affiliated with the Mid-Ohio Food
Collective, filled the necessity bags with
its regular deliveries, though the variety
wasn’t always consistent. Happel and
her colleagues would take regular trips to
grocery stores to fill in any blanks, such
as canned beans and fruit. After a request
to the Ohio Lodging Association for
help, toiletries poured in from hotels and
(Left to right) Sharon Kreuz, Katie White (MSW ’20) and Christine Happel (MSW ’19)
motels around the county. unload groceries to be delivered to older adults during COVID-19. From March to
Both programs wrapped up on July 31 July, 48,622 pounds of food was dispatched to 43 zip codes.
as other organizations handled the need
(the Ohio Department on Aging and the
American Association of Retired Persons recovering from addiction or mental illness Finding help is as easy as a phone
both offer phone lines, grocery stores are encouraged to share their stories within call or text. A trio of free, confidential
began hosting senior-only hours and their local communities. 24-7 options is available, including:
other organizations are now delivering “Access is in many ways related to • The Ohio Care Line (800/720-9616).
bags of shelf-stable food). stigma, so empowering the voice of Started in April, professionals provide
Students fielded 2,488 phone calls, minority Ohioans with lived experience emotional support, referrals and,
totaling 148 hours of conversation, is an action we can take to decrease sometimes, active rescues for emergency
and 3,711 necessity bags delivered stigma and increase access to treatment,” psychiatric episodes. Nearly 2,500 calls
48,622 pounds of food across 43 zip codes. Criss says. “These grants leverage tools were received in the first four months.
“Being lonely and isolated draws a and resources so everyday Ohioans • A crisis text line (Text 4HOPE to 741-741).
mental toll on people,” Happel says. “Our can identify signs of mental health or Users—generally youth, high school,
ability to positively affect and help guide problematic substance use.” college-age and young adults—are
people through this shared struggle is Overdoses and overdose deaths have connected to a trained counselor
invigorating in a way. It’s uplifting for social been increasing among African American within a minute or two.
workers to creatively approach a problem.” men in Ohio, so OhioMHAS is providing • National Suicide Prevention Hotline
another $30 million in federal funding (800/273-8255).
CREATING HEALTH EQUITY through the State Opioid Response
While the Black community raises its Program to help minority communities Telehealth—a remote consultation
national voice through protest, Lori with prevention, early intervention, by phone or videoconference with a
Criss (BSSW ’91, MSW ’92), director of treatment and recovery support. Funds behavioral health practitioner—also went
the Ohio Department of Mental Health go to local Alcohol, Drug and Mental from a convenience to a necessity. Criss
and Addiction Services (MHAS), aims to Health boards or directly to behavioral says she expects it to remain a vital option
amplify minority communities’ voices for health providers. going forward.
better behavioral health outcomes. As few as 10 percent of those needing Also important during a crisis, no matter
The white population has long enjoyed mental health or substance abuse what form it takes: a social work education.
better access to behavioral health services. treatment seek it, Criss says, and the “Having that social work foundation
The pandemic made that disparity more pandemic threatened to shrink that helps me think about the dignity and
problematic because COVID-19 hit people number. OhioMHAS increased telehealth value of each person and to consider
of color especially hard. Coupled with services and launched social media their needs in the bigger context of
racism’s chronic stress, the need to reduce messaging to let Ohioans know it is OK to society and the world around them,”
health barriers has never been greater. feel distressed and how to seek peer and Criss says. “It’s a helpful frame for me to
The good news, Criss says, is that professional help if needed. bring to the planning and use of data to
DeWine is committed to erasing disparities. “The public is really driving the inform decisions but also to have that
One administration initiative through conversation as they share fears, sadness and foundational value of social justice and
OhioMHAS provides local racial and anxiety about COVID-19,” Criss says, “and that human relationships.
ethnic organizations $1 million in grants to opened the door for us to make talking about “The quality of our relationships is
increase awareness and educate the public. mental health normal and to create pathways going to help us have better outcomes for
With these funds, minorities living with or to help for addiction and mental illness.” the people we are here to serve.” n
FALL 2020 15A profession of hope
SOCIAL WORKERS IN OHIO should Executive Director Danielle Smith
“Social workers need
count themselves lucky. In a moment (BSSW ’08, MSW/MPA ’10) explained
characterized by turmoil and uncertainty, how supporting social workers requires
they can turn to their professional to get comfortable coming together to protect both social
association for bold and visionary
leadership on the defining issues of our
being uncomfortable. workers and clients.
“Community strength in our profession
time. During the Coronavirus pandemic Even with those good is important for our wellbeing and our
and Movement for Black Lives, the NASW
Ohio Chapter has stepped forward as a
intentions, we get clients’ wellbeing,” she says. “By pooling
our resources, we were able to hire an
resource, partner and convener for social bad outcomes.” employment attorney, hire full-time staff
workers across the state. – PAT LYONS to watch the licensing board and watch
“We have offered practical resources what the legislature does. We are often
for telehealth support for years, so we forgotten or overlooked for the value that
were able to respond quickly to get we provide, but social workers are right
practical knowledge in the hands of Development Associate Hannah Ware there in the mix.”
people who never thought they were emphasized the chapter’s recent focus
going to do telehealth,” says Colleen on worker rights as a key piece of their
Dempsey (BSSW ’10, MSW ’12), practice COVID-19 response. NASW STAFF ALSO RECOGNIZES how
associate at the NASW Ohio Chapter. “Yes, we’re frontline workers. Yes, we need supporting social workers also requires
“We also leaned into our responsibility to to jump into action. But we are also workers,” an uncomfortable look inward at how
protect workers by hiring an attorney and says Ware. “Workers have few rights in many the profession itself perpetuates racist
getting a good FAQ on workers’ rights that settings, but we have tools, such as unions, systems being called into question by the
was responsive at the moment.” that we can use to our advantage.” current social movement.
16 CSW.OSU.EDUDr. Pat Lyons (top left); Thousands gather during the 2020 March on Washington
(bottom left), including Danielle Smith with sister Breann Smith (right).
“Social work needs to fully embrace racism in Ohio social work. Dr. Pat Lyons difficult conversations can impede
the platform of social justice and (MSW ‘88) of NABSW recognizes that the the progress needed to move these
anti-oppression as the core of what we do work needed to improve the profession conversations to action and policy.
across practice areas,” says Smith. “Social will not be easy. “Social workers need to get
work is so dominated by white folks, and “Social workers should be very comfortable being uncomfortable. Even
social workers of color face the same racism transparent about what is happening with those good intentions, we get bad
in the profession that they do elsewhere.” to Black lives,” says Lyons. “Those outcomes,” Lyons adds. “Black and
Dempsey points to social work ethics good advocates need to take a look at clinicians of color end up responding to
as the foundation for engaging with the themselves. How much equity are you the feelings of our colleagues instead of
current social uprising. really willing to have?” addressing the real problem of racism,
“The Code of Ethics is the foundation For Lyons, social work is part of an marginalization, disparities and inequities.”
for our work. NASW’s Code of Ethics identity, not just a profession. Given the need for discomfort, difficult
has historically taken up all the space in “My commitment to the field of social conversations and deep changes, Smith
terms of what is taught in the classroom, work is not based on a job. The goal is ultimately sees the future of the social
and we are trying to share that space always to produce the healthiest outcomes work profession as resting in the hands of
more,” she says. The National Association and opportunities,” she says. “Social work social workers themselves.
of Black Social Workers (NABSW) has a as a discipline has professionalized ways “I keep coming back to social work as
code of ethics that should be taught in of understanding how the field works. For a profession of hope. This is a tool of the
schools too.” example, the artificial boundary that we have trade,” says Smith. “If you want a different
To begin some of this work, the trained people to set to not acknowledge a social work, engage with NASW and
Columbus Chapter of the Association of person outside of the therapeutic setting has NABSW. We have the privilege of being
Black Social Workers (Col. OH-ABSW) never benefited communities of color.” stewards of a long history of social change,
co-hosted a conversation with NASW to Lyons points out how the emotional but change in social work belongs to the
discuss the history of NABSW and current reactions of white social workers to social workers changing it.” z
FALL 2020 17Internal
conversations drive
reflection, change “...in the College of
Social Work, these
ABOUT A DOZEN African American Dean Tom Gregoire opened the
and multiracial faculty and staff in the introspection with an all-college session. issues are addressed
Zoom conference said absolutely nothing. Virtual events and training for Black allies, by an academic
And that was OK. Just having a space to a student-led Zoom, Denby-Brinson’s
be together and have a shared “I get it” Brown Bag and a discussion around the community prepared
moment was the needed respite as the book “How To Be an Antiracist” for the and willing to meet
the challenges.”
country confronted racial tensions and college’s Community Engagement Team
the pandemic continued unabated. soon followed.
Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Denby-Brinson says there is “no – RAMONA DENBY-BRINSON
Ramona Denby-Brinson established agenda, nothing scripted” in the virtual
the virtual Brown Bags this summer lunch, which moved to the first Fridays of
to see how Black college faculty and each month. “Just having that collective “While the world is experiencing two
staff were handling the stress, fears and strength, where you don’t have to explain pandemics—COVID-19 and pronounced
uncertainties of the moment. It was anything, it’s a heart kind of connection,” acts of racism heightened by racial
part of a broader effort by the College of she says. division—in the College of Social Work,
Social Work to have thought-provoking, Of course, discussions happen too. these issues are addressed by an academic
empowering discussions where everyone Poems are shared. So are community community prepared and willing to meet
finds their place and voice. resources and events. the challenges,” Denby-Brinson says.
18 CSW.OSU.EDU“People often think
that because we are
social workers, we are
already anti-racist
and operate through a
social justice lens, but
that’s not always the
case... It takes a lot of
continuous learning
and unlearning to rise
to that challenge.”
– RAVEN LYNCH
BLACK
LI VE S
“Our college has cultivated a culture MATTER
of respect, inclusion and a sense that our
shared values motivate us to seek change
within ourselves and among others. We
value people over anything else. We are
able to do this because our leadership
prioritizes everyone’s health and wellbeing Out of that discussion, Gregoire
and respects that our college community says, a new course titled “Becoming
might be struggling in this moment.” Anti-racist” is being developed. Lynch
That was apparent in 2016 when the said participants asked faculty and staff,
college established a Diversity Work Group but especially tenured faculty, to be
and appointed Dr. Carla Curtis chief accountable for addressing racism in the
diversity officer. Curtis retired last year, and classroom and college.
Dr. Njeri Kagotho currently serves in this “People often think that because
role that ensures diversity and inclusion is we are social workers, we are already
woven into the college’s fabric. anti-racist and operate through a social
“Diversity is not a problem to be A pair of training sessions—“Introduction justice lens, but that’s not always the case,”
solved, it’s a way to be better as a to Activism” and “Advocacy for says Lynch. “It takes a lot of continuous
community,” says Gregoire, adding it Impact”—engaged people to connect with learning and unlearning to rise to that
was important to create a separate office community organizers, contact elected challenge; it doesn’t come inherently with
rather than just write diversity into the representatives and be effective when a job or field title.”
college’s strategic plan. Drs. Curtis and discussing legislation. And white allies in Director of Continuing Education
Kagotho expanded diversity among the college held a Zoom meeting with Black Sara Friedman suggested the college’s
students, faculty and staff and ensured colleagues to talk about working within their Community Engagement team read
open dialogue at every Diversity Work own networks without overpowering or Ibram X. Kendi’s 2019 bestseller “How to
Group meeting. derailing the Black Lives Matter message. Be an Antiracist.” The hope, she says, is to
“The work of diversity belongs to all of “White people need to do the work better understand white privilege (nine of
us. And there’s no finish line; it’s always internally to show up for racial justice the 10 team members are white) and how
evolving,” Gregoire says. movements and to be affirming of the to best use it as power for change in the
College Advocacy Director Steve true effort going on,” says David. Black community.
David, who also arrived in 2016, put It’s a lofty goal, to end racism and “I wanted to keep the conversations
together programs and talks this summer structural inequality, but the college’s going,” says Friedman, who also plans
so non-Black faculty, staff and students open dialogue goes a long way toward to encourage people to vote and start
could have honest discussions about continually seeding the effort, says Raven racial justice conversations in what she
affirming and lending their support. Lynch, a PhD candidate. She was part described as her fairly conservative
Four hundred people attended a of a June 15 Zoom student panel which suburban community. “Oftentimes when
July screening and panel discussion of included master’s student Crystal Vincent, injustices happen, everyone becomes
“True Justice: Bryan Stevenson’s Fight for undergrad Sly Worthy Jr., David and enraged and things go back to normal.
Equality,” an HBO documentary about Dr. Michelle Kaiser to discuss the college’s Having the book discussion is allowing
an Alabama attorney fighting racial role in dismantling racism and what us to do more than just be angry about it,
inequality in the criminal justice system. action steps students would like to see. and we see ways we can be influential.” n
FALL 2020 19You can also read
