Social & Human Services
Faculty
Chair & Associate Professor: Dr. Diana Elliott
Department Mission: The Department of Social & Human Services faithfully aligns with the College’s mission to educate students so that God will be glorified in all they do. In accordance with the Catholic, Benedictine, and liberal arts traditions, the undergraduate program in Social & Human Services provides students with both theoretical and experiential learning to ethically assist vulnerable and diverse individuals, families, and communities. With the goal of advancing human well-being, social justice, and the dignity and worth of all people, the Social & Human Services program provides knowledge based on research and grounded in Christian worldview to integrate faith while working with marginalized populations, promoting social justice, advocating for clients, and engaging in prevention, intervention, and evidence-based practices in social service entities.
The knowledge and skills gained in the Social & Human Services program will assist students seeking careers in diverse professional settings such as in child and family services, social services, human trafficking, ministry, nonprofit agencies, addictions clinics, court services, correctional settings, youth facilities, community mental health centers, and health care. In addition, it will prepare students who desire to continue their education in graduate fields of study such as social work, counseling, substance abuse, criminal justice, and human services.
Departmental Goals: The Department of Social & Human Services is committed to training students who will:
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integrate the principles and ethics that guide the social service professional with a Christian perspective of the human person, family, groups, and culture.
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routinely evaluate their personal values, biases, strengths, and limitations so as to understand their impact on professional activities.
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have a holistic view of wellness, prevention, and remediation of problems in living.
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understand and effectively utilize research to determine effective, and appropriate service delivery practices.
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possess skills to promote effective functioning and resilience with individuals, families, groups, and communities.