Social work – professor shares insights on the field
Social work contributes to the lives of
so many in our communities. Yet,
individuals doing this invaluable work
are often behind the scenes. They are
unsung heroes who focus on helping
others rather than seeking the
limelight.
So when a social worker is recognized
for their service, it’s a big deal. It
is also a testament to a job so well
done that others celebrate these
accomplishments in a public way.
Recognition of valuable contributions
As the recipient of this year’s prestigious Louis H. Swartz Memorial Award, Erin Carman—an assistant professor in Daemen’s Social Work and Sociology Department—fits the bill as a standout, example-setting professional in her field.
She is “very passionate about her
work, especially her contributions to
police reform,” according to her
nomination form. What’s more, Carman incorporates her
experiences into her courses. This
benefits the next generation of social
workers along the way. Her courses include Oppression,
Power, and Change; Juvenile Justice;
and Child and Family Policy and
Services.
She also offers students an
independent study option with the
Buffalo Police Advisory Board. It is a unique opportunity for
hands-on experience in a profession they
aspire to join.
As former co-chair of that board,
Carman led policy research, community
engagement, and advocated for reforms
to policing. This included the establishment of a
new and independent police oversight
structure. Eventually, this could lead to use-of-force policy
reform and mental health diversion
programs to address issues that
disproportionately
impact Black, Indigenous and people of
color (BIPOC) communities.
We sat down with Carman recently, to
learn more about her diverse
experiences in the field and
inspiration that keeps her going.
Insights on the field
What are some reasons you chose to
pursue social work?
I grew up in a political family of art
educators, so I was exposed
to thinking about humanity and social
justice. I saw social work as one path toward
contributing to systems change in
areas I felt most passionate
about.
What are some of the most rewarding
parts of being a social worker?
Working in collaboration with others,
most of my work involves building
relationships with colleagues to plan
and act to contribute to a collective
vision of change.
Why is social work so essential,
especially during the COVID-19
pandemic?
The pandemic has made existing
disparities even more visible. Social
work improves our society. It examines
ways individuals, groups, and
communities are harmed. It also looks at
ways we can change our societal systems
to improve lives.
What current trends have you seen in
the field?
The field is revisiting how we—as
both social workers and members of
society—contribute to race-based
oppression and work to address
it.
Between the past year of
pandemic-related issues, political
change, and police brutality and
protests, the field is examining
itself and its contributions to change
in this arena.
Social work at Daemen University
What are some of the key benefits
Daemen’s social work program
offers its students?
Our program has faculty who are, as we
call ourselves,
“practitioner-scholars.” In addition
to our teaching, and to strengthen our
teaching, we continue to practice in
communities. This allows us to apply our learning
as teachers. It also allows to us bring our
experience to the classroom and
connect students to our community work
and relationships.
What advice do you have for students
considering a degree in social work?
Social work allows you to contribute
to social change through working with
individuals, groups, and systems. Speak with faculty members in our
department about the range of
contributions social workers can
make!
Learn more about
Daemen’s social work programs
today.