Widener University celebrates 10 years of the Master of Social Work program

Widener University, a long-time Risepoint partner, recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Online Master of Social Work program. This milestone is proof of Widener’s dedication to empowering its community of social work leaders. At the ceremony, the university recognized Risepoint for our help in launching the program and supporting their students.

A pillar in Chester, Pennsylvania, Widener University has a reputation for supporting the local community, and community initiatives are an essential part of the university’s mission. Expanding access to social work education is a perfect example of that commitment. As the United States’ social assistance shortage worsens, this program is providing Chester with more qualified social workers in their community and for their families.

Risepoint teammates serve as supportive coaches for Widener’s social work students, from the moment that they consider joining the program until graduation. Our Student Retention Specialists typically begin their relationship with students by conducting welcome calls, contacting Widener University social work students by phone three to four weeks before their first class to discuss their goals and inform them of the many supportive resources they have access to. These resources include phone support when students need help balancing their course load with their personal and professional lives.

“My favorite part of my job is talking to students during their welcome calls. I often hear aspirations of people wanting to start their own practice or get involved in different community centers once they graduate. I feel a kinship with these students knowing that they are going to school to help others through challenging situations and that’s what I do every day when I support them.”

Jessica West, Senior Student Retention Specialist, Risepoint

Jessica shared a speech at the Widener University 10th anniversary celebration, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to witness the importance of the social work program and the impact that it makes on students and the Chester community.

Special thanks to these Risepoint colleagues for significantly contributing to our partnership with Widener University and their social work students. Each of these colleagues is dedicated to reinforcing Widener’s commitment to growing the next generation of social workers.

• Rick Garcia, Product Marketing Manager
• Jessica West, Senior Student Retention Specialist
• Yra Coleman, Student Engagement Specialist
• Kali Bellomy, Student Operations Specialist

Watch the full tribute video for Widener University’s 10th anniversary.