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DSW Showcase Student Presentation

Melissa Sparks

MSW, CSW, DSW Candidate

Resilient Social Work Students: Bridging the Gap in Retention in Social Work

Concentration -

  • Tuesday, April 29, 2025 -
  • 9:00 am
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Abstract

Resilience is not magical but a capacity within all individuals, groups, and communities. As the social work profession faces complex challenges, cultivating resilience is critical for fostering personal and professional development, enhancing success, and promoting overall well-being. This presentation explores the significance of resilience, emphasizing the implications for social work students and the profession. Drawing on findings from the systematic literature review conducted as part of the Capstone Project, the presentation will address, “How are colleges of social work incorporating resiliency to promote longevity in the field?” The synthesis of knowledge will examine the various methodologies implemented by colleges of social work to nurture resilience among students and evaluate the effectiveness of the approaches. Additionally, the presentation will conceptualize theoretical frameworks expanding the tenants of Resilience Theory through the lens of Ecological Systems Theory and Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development to highlight the developmental process of resilience, gaining a deeper understanding of the ways social work students can grow in their resilience. The research grounded in theoretical frameworks provides meaningful applications relevant to higher education practices. Through the exploration, the research seeks to contribute to the discourse surrounding resilience as a pivotal element in preparing future social workers.

Biography

Melissa L. Sparks holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Studies from Berea College, where her academics contributed to publications of “The Early History of Black Berea.” She was honored to receive the Helen and Jean Barkley Memorial Service Award, recognizing her community commitment. Berea College was pivotal in nurturing her love of learning and service. After graduation, she found her passion for public health and home visitation with the HANDS program in both management and providing direct service at the Clark County Health Department, serving families of the Commonwealth.
Mrs. Sparks subsequently earned a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky and is licensed as a Certified Social Worker with certification as a Rank I School Social Worker. While advancing her education, she honed her skills, working with staff to build and develop their competencies. Her time with the HANDS program provided opportunities, including delivering Parent Survey and Supervision Training for the state of Kentucky, consultation, supervision, and administration. Her work and dedication enabled her to testify before state legislation on the importance of early childhood home visitation.
Mrs. Sparks is the Director of Human Resources and Information Services, focusing on leadership, building organizational functionality, and operational/policy revisions. Her research interests include adverse childhood experiences, trauma-informed practices, and resilience, which contributed to her decision to pursue a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) degree at the University of Kentucky. As a doctoral candidate, her Capstone centers on resiliency and social work students.