Memberships and Organizations Available to Social Work Students

National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards for social workers, and to advance sound social policies (source: www.socialworkers.org). The NASW Nebraska chapter invites Phi Alpha member applications for free or reduced membership. Social Work students who are experiencing a financial crisis may apply for short term, no interest loans for up to $300 through the NASW-NE Social Work Loan Committee.

Phi Alpha Honor Society

The Phi Alpha Honor Society at the Grace Abbott School of Social Work is a distinguished student organization dedicated to academic excellence, professional development, and the advancement of humanitarian values. Rooted in the core principles of social work, Phi Alpha fosters a sense of community among students while upholding the highest standards of education, service, and ethical practice.

Membership in Phi Alpha is open to both BSSW and MSW students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and a commitment to the field of social work. More than an honor society, Phi Alpha is a space where future social workers connect, collaborate, and engage in meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities within the profession. Through service initiatives, scholarly activities, and leadership opportunities, members of Phi Alpha strengthen their dedication to advocacy, lifelong learning, and the pursuit of social justice.

By joining Phi Alpha, students become part of a tradition that celebrates excellence while inspiring one another to make a lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities.

Meetings are held once per month and include a variety of service projects and socials throughout the year. Phi Alpha is an active chapter that requires all members to participate in Phi Alpha activities and fundraisers. Social work students should keep this in mind when making a decision to apply. Active members of the Phi Alpha Chapter are expected to meet the following requirements:

• Have at least two full semesters left in their degree program
• Pay dues on time
• Attend required meetings throughout each semester
• Participate in and contribute to committees
• Participate in the yearly service project(s)

Undergraduate application requirements include declaration of social work as a major, completion of nine credit hours of required social work courses, and overall GPA that is within the top 35% of all BSSW students at UNO. Graduate application requirements include completion of nine credit hours of required social work courses, and overall GPA that is within the top 35% of all MSW students at UNO.

Phi Alpha Student Leaders 2023-24: President: Cierra Ballard, Vice President: Sydney Comstock, Secretary: Isabella Frederick, Treasurer: Moriah Harris, Recruitment/Marketing Chair: Faith Gary, and Service and Social/Fundraising Chair, Delaney Ham.

Phi Alpha Faculty Advisor: Kersten Borer, MSW, LIMHP, CMSW, LADC (kerstenborer@unomaha.edu)

Student Social Work Organization (SSWO)

Open to both undergraduate and graduate social work students, the Student Social Work Organization (SSWO) serves as a wonderful opportunity for students to network and socialize with each other. SSWO members actively coordinate student and service activities and meet regularly on the first and third Wednesdays of every month. Contact SSWO directly (sswo@unomaha.edu) for additional assistance.

SSWO Leadership 2024-2025: President and Community Engagement Coordinator: Hailey Edwards, Secretary: Daisy Bravo, Treasurer: Brittany Jones, and Social Media: Haley Schuler

SSWO Faculty Advisor: Yiwei Zhang, PhD (yiweizhang@unomaha.edu)

University Honors Program

The University Honors Program seeks high-potential students who want creative and learner-centered educational experiences and want to share a community with others from diverse backgrounds. Our holistic approach to admission considers the whole student, as revealed in application essays and letters of recommendation, while high school GPA and ACT scores are factors but not barriers to admission. Click here to learn more.