Boise State School of Social Work magazine

1. vantagepointboisestateuniversity
schoolofsocialwork
third edition

2. show the world how much you care
social worker
become a

3. table of contents
letter from the director
Dr. Roy Rodenhiser
17.....................................organization of student social workers
15 ......................................................... bsu alumna kristen nate
Martee Leigh Ortiz-Rojas
Editor/Writer/Designer
Dr. Roy Rodenhiser
Director
Dr. Cynthia Sanders
BSW Coordinator
Dr. Joelle D. Powers
MSW Coordinator
5 ............................................. phi alpha honor society, theta psi
Mr. Raymond Mullenax
Field Coordinator
10 ............................................................................ new faculty
2 ........................................................... what are social workers?
12 .............................................................. prospective students
14 ................................................. bsu alumna sheila knezevich
12 .............................................. job possibilities and placement
13 ........................................................ master’s degree program
10 ...................................................................... faculty research
13 ..................................................... bachelor's degree program
16......................................child welfare center scholars program
3 .......................................a graphical representation of the sosw
Sue Martin
Lewiston MSW Coordinator
Dr. Heath Walters
Coeur d’Alene MSW Coordinator
Jamie Kelley-Kenyon
Twin Falls MSW Coordinator
Stefanie Gilbert
Twin Falls BSW Coordinator
Dr. Roy Rodenhiser’s scholarship focuses on baccalaureate education as-
sessment. He also was part of the team's presentation of current accredita-
tion assessment information at the annual BPD conference in Cincinnati.
He reviewed two articles for the Journal of Community Practice and is on its
editorial board. He is currently assessing the use of mobile devices in the
classroom using focus group and survey data collection methodology.
Recent scholarship:
▪ DeLong Hamilton, T., Buchan, V., Hull, G., Christensen, B., Gerritsen-
McKane, R., Rodenhiser, R., & Smith, M. L. (2011). Responding to the
2008 EPAS: Baccalaureate Education Assessment: Direct and Indirect Mea-
surement, Journal of Baccalaureate Social Work
director and coordinators:
Dear colleagues and friends of the BSU School of Social Work:
Welcome to the third issue of the Vantage Point, a viewbook
designed to provide you with an update about the school, fac-
ulty, students, and alumni. Inside you will find updates on our
undergraduate and graduate programs, our child welfare scholars
program, and unique refugee certificate program as well as recent
accomplishments of faculty, students, and alumni. I hope that you
will enjoy this update about the School of Social Work and how it
is changing as we seek to meet the needs of those we serve.
As a school of social work we have three primary goals: we pre-
pare competent and effective social work professionals. Secondly,
we develop social work knowledge that informs our profession and
lastly, we provide leadership in the development of service delivery
systems that meet the needs of those we serve. Throughout this
viewbook you will see ample evidence that these goals are being
met.
I am very proud of our faculty and staff as we continue to meet
the educational need for social workers in the local region, state,
and country. Our BSW and MSW programs in Twin Falls in col-
laboration with the College of Southern Idaho are an unqualified
success. Our MSW programs in Coeur d’Alene and Lewiston
continue to grow and provide needed social workers for rural and
Northern Idaho. The program in the north is made possible only
through the incredible collaboration and support of Lewis Clark
State College and the faculty in their Department of Social Work.
Our faculty continue to be active in research projects including
ones that have far reaching implications for economic and social
justice in our society and others that inform new social work peda-
gogy to our profession.
I am also very proud of our students and alumni who contribute
so much to the university and the communities where they live
and serve. These folks and the people they serve are why we are
here, and I strongly believe our students and alumni make a differ-
ence for the families of Idaho and beyond.
Sincerely,
Dr. Roy “Butch” Rodenhiser
16 ................................................................. refugee certificates
17........................................................................ stay connected
1
Photo (front page): Ingrid Metzger photographer

4. what are social workers?
Socials workers strive to improve the lives of others, and they attempt to eliminate social injustices. To accomplish these goals, they help iden-
tify and resolve problems that arise between persons and their environments. Social workers focus not only on the well-being of individuals
and groups but also on the well-being of society as a whole.
▪ aim to prevent future problems
▪ identify and resolve current problems
▪ develop, advocate, and execute social policies
▪ develop resources for others to use, such as problem-solving
and coping skills
▪ develop solutions to difficult dilemmas
▪ maintain high ethical standards
▪ research to gain further knowledge and skills
how social workers help
social workers...
▪ advocacy
▪ child abuse and neglect
▪ domestic violence
▪ education
▪ family and child services
▪ legal matters
▪ medical/health
▪ mental health
▪ social policy
▪ substance abuse
Phi Alpha members spending time at a local nursing home.
social workers specialize in...
-Dr. Gretchen Cotrell
BSU Associate Professor
Social workers promote equality, social
justice, and positive change for human
growth, development, and well-being.
“
”
social workers work with...
▪ individuals-children, teens, and adults
▪ family and social groups
▪ community organizations
where do social workers find
jobs in this economy?
▪ for-profit companies
▪ non-profit organizations (non-profit groups employ the
most social workers)
▪ private companies and firms
▪ public or government agencies
what are some other terms for
social workers?
▪ clinicians
▪ psychotherapists
▪ case workers
▪ clinical social workers
▪ work with diverse groups of people
▪ change lives for the better, daily
▪ will work with amazing people who want to help others too
▪ help the community
▪ better the environment
▪ help others achieve dreams and aspirations
▪ help people grow mentally, physically, and psychologically
▪ have endless opportunities to grow as a human being
▪ feel good about helping others and the environment
▪ will leave work every day knowing you helped someone
you want to become a social
worker because you...
when you become a social
worker you pledge to be
a good role model and
to defend those less
Ingrid Metzger photographer
fortunate
2

5. Coeur
d'Alene
MSW
Students
in
Field
Prac2cum
Hours
per
Student
Cumula2ve
Hours
per
Cohort
Contribu2on
@
$15/h
First
Year
Students
21
400
8400
$126,000
Second
Year
Students
25
600
15000
$225,000
Total
Contribu1on:
$351,000
Twin
Falls
MSW,
BSW
Students
in
Field
Prac2cum
Hours
per
Student
Cumula2ve
Hours
per
Cohort
Contribu2on
@
$15/h
First
Year
Students
13
400
5,200
$78,000
Second
Year
Students
30
600
18,000
$270,000
Undergraduate
Students
30
480
14,400
$216,000
Total
Contribu1on:
$564,000
Lewiston
MSW
Students
in
Field
Prac2cum
Hours
per
Student
Cumula2ve
Hours
per
Cohort
Contribu2on
@
$15/h
First
Year
Students
14
400
5,600
$84,000
Second
Year
Students
30
600
18,000
$270,000
Total
Contribu1on:
$354,000
Boise
MSW,
BSW
Students
in
Field
Prac2cum
Hours
per
Student
Cumula2ve
Hours
per
Cohort
Contribu2on
@
$15/h
First
Year
Students
23
400
9,200
$138,000
Second
Year
Students
58
600
34,800
$522,000
Undergraduate
Students
52
480
24,960
$374,400
Total
Contribu1on:
$1,034,400
this chart signifies the tangible contribution of social work students in the school
year 2010/2011 and includes examples of current evaluation projects.
how the bsu sosw has helped
▪ Evaluation of services provided to homeless veterans at the annual Stand Down.
▪ Evaluation of the Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and its impact on
suicide and self-harm occurrences in juveniles
in the Solutions Program.
▪ Evaluation of Emergency Assistance payments to families
and its impact on child maltreatment prevention and
preclusion of children who have
entered the foster care.
▪ Evaluation of a relationship between Family Group
Decision Making meetings and the length of time
a child spends in foster care.
▪ Needs assessment of additional case managers for
Operation Enduring Freedom & Operation
Iraqi Freedom veterans, and forecasting
of future services demand.
▪ Evaluation and assessment of
barriers to education
attainment of students
with McNair scholarships
and students in
BSU’s Student
Success Program.
▪ Effectiveness evaluation of case management plans at Port-
neuf Medical Center.
▪ Evaluation of respite services provided by Catholic charities
to caregivers of persons with memory loss.
▪ Evaluation of client satisfaction with services received from
adult mental health providers.
▪ Cultural sensitiveness evaluation of PHQ-9 assessment tool for
measuring depression in Latina clients.
▪ Effectiveness evaluation of third-party distribution by a health
care provider and its impact on early literacy information
distribution to new patients.

6. School of Social Work professors excited to see and invite new Phi Alpha Honor Society members at the induction ceremony, Friday, April 13.
Ingrid Metzger photographer
Phi Alpha members working concessions.
4

7. a glimpse into phi alpha honor society
theta psi chapter changes bsu and its surroundings
Inthelast12months,BoiseState’sThetaPsiChapterofthePhiAlpha
Honor Society inducted 42 students. With 56 members total, they
spent 858 hours volunteering in the community and 224 hours fund-
raising for the school and community. TheTreasureValley couldn’t ask
for a better group of caring individuals. Featured here are only a few
events the BSU Phi Alpha Honor Society are doing in the community.
The Unites States Department of Veterans Affairs opened the Old
Soldiers Home in May 1895. In 1996, the name changed to Boise
Veterans Home. Here, veterans find peaceful shelter and long-term
care. This facility, located only a few miles from the heart of down-
town Boise, offers housing to veterans who suffer from Alzheimer’s
and related diseases. This home has its own physical therapy unit
including extensive activity programs, on site veteran and social
services, and an extensive library. Frequently, Theta Psi, Phi Alpha
members spend a day at the veterans home and play bingo with its
residents. Theta Psi believes “Providing this type of volunteer service
is a small price to pay for these men and women who have given so
much of their own lives to make this a free country.” Theta Psi also
goes to the VA home weekly and gives hand massages and cheerful
visits to the vets.
At a community level, Theta Psi works closely with a local school,
Morley Nelson Grade School, and its students. This particular school
has a higher than average population of refugee students. Often
times, these pupils struggle in school because English is a second
language for them. Studies have shown that watching movies and
cartoons in a different language can rapidly increase the ability to
learn another language—which is why Theta Psi started a VHS mov-
ie drive. They accepted donations that included family films, Disney
movies and other cartoons. The school accepted the tapes graciously
and currently allow students to check out the movies just as one
would a library book. The grade school also allows students to watch
the movies at lunch hour or during free time.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development helps
fund Idaho’s organizations to help the homeless and other prevention
networks. In turn, the state of Idaho initiated the annual Point-In-
Time Count of the homeless in 2005. Since then Idaho and Theta
Psi have worked to target and help the homeless. They attempt to
raise public awareness in order to prevent homelessness or at least
alleviate it. People who have lived in Idaho or have visited in the
winter know that Idaho’s temperatures can drop below freezing.
Members of the Theta Psi Chapter of the Phi Alpha Honor Society
recognize this and eagerly offer their assistance to the homeless men,
women and children of Idaho. Not only do they participate in the
Count, but they also initiate blanket fund-raisers and donate them to
homeless shelters. Theta Psi assists in staffing the Interfaith Sanctu-
ary, which is a homeless shelter that targets homeless families with
children. Members jump in wherever they are needed—some tasks
include signing residents into the facility, handing out bedding, and
dispensing various medications.
As a common practice, Theta Psi tours the home of Women’s and
Children’s Alliance to grasp a better understanding of opportuni-
ties and challenges in social work. The WCA gives shelter to women
and children who have suffered domestic abuse and sexual assault.
Theta Psi reported this quote from one WCA resident, “I went to
the WCA, and they gave me counseling, and they gave me peace,
and they gave me confidence—that I never knew before—in who I
was. They’re the first people [who] told me that it wasn’t my fault.”
Todate,over2060individualshavecalledtheWCAcrisishotline.Even
though the licensed counselors at WCA help over 2000 individuals,
an average of 64 women and children wait for their help on a monthly
basis. People volunteer for court-advocate positions at theWCA. They
assist in nearly 600 protections orders filed in theTreasure Valley area.
Theta Psi feels touring and learning about the WCA is a staple
in understanding how to help frightened and battered women.
In 1997, the Social Service Department initiated the “Stop Vio-
lence Against Indian Women” program. The goal of this organization
is to assist Native American women who are victims of domestic
violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, and stalking. Determined, this
organization seeks to stop violence through the spread of awareness
and intervention. Theta Psi volunteers at the annual training for this
monumental organization.
Theta Psi diligently helps in the annual Children’s Village Charity
Dinner and Auction. They help set up the event and deliver items
to auction buyers. This dinner auction raises funds for abused, ne-
glected, and troubled foster children. These children range from in-
fant to 18 years of age. In addition to the charity dinner and auc-
tion, Theta Psi volunteers in the Gingerbread Holiday Gala, which
is funded by the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) team.
America’s Heroes
Cartoons for Refugees
Helping the Homeless
Stopping Domestic Abuse
Children’s Fund-raiser
Phi Alpha members working in the community and making our city a
better place.
5

8. CASA recruits, trains, and supervises Treasure Valley volunteers who
help foster care children. Volunteers visit the children regularly and
compile each child’s detailed background for the court. The gala in-
cludes a live auction, a silent auction, and a raffle. All proceeds fund
CASA’s, which primarily helps foster children. Theta Psi helps orga-
nize this event, and they even construct a gingerbread house. During
the event, the gingerbread house is auctioned to the highest bidder.
Afterwards, Theta Psi provides clean-up services for the event and go
home knowing they made a difference.
Theta Psi joined the National Associate of Social Workers with its
2011 Idaho Legislative Advocacy Days program at the Boise capitol.
This was a two-day event in which the community could learn more
about the local legislative process. Because local laws play a dynamic
role in social work, this event helps hundreds of Idahoans learn local
regulation and, if need be, how to change them.
In 2010, Theta Psi made 25 signs to support the Pride rally and pa-
rade. They met at the courthouse and then marched with the parade
through downtown Boise into Ann Morrison Park. To show support
for gay, lesbian, transgender, and bisexual individuals, they passed
out pamphlets that included the few rights the gay community have
in Idaho. These handouts also included legislative contact informa-
tion and encouraged people to contact their representatives about
the necessity of equal rights in Boise and beyond. Theta Psi is proud
to be part of these types of rallies because they promote equality for
the underrepresented in Idaho’s society.
To help alleviate stress at the university, Theta Psi works closely
with BSU concessions. Due to the football team’s increased popular-
ity since the 2007 Fiesta Bowl championship over the Oklahoma
Sooners, the demand for concessions at home games rose to an all
time high. To combat this need to please the ever-increasing crowd,
Theta Psi volunteered for the job. Members work gruesome, six and
a half hour shifts in which they cook and wrap food items for hungry
football fans. Without them, the stadium concessions wouldn’t have
enough food for customers, and the program would suffer as a result.
The Phi Alpha, Theta Psi chapter in Northern Idaho also regularly
participates in community service. Residents in the northern part of
Idaho hold an annual “Clean our Stream” rally. They dedicate this
single day to help clean the trash from the Spokane River banks.
To recruit members, Theta Psi visits 101- and 201-level so-
cial work classes where they briefly introduce the mission state-
ment and recent accomplishments. In addition, Theta Psi recog-
nizes the academic achievement of its news members by hosting
a formal induction ceremony. Friends and family gather to bear
witness to their accomplishments while they receive member-
ship certificates and pins. The Phi Alpha Honor Society for so-
cial work has been an organization for 50 years. Because new so-
cial work students often have difficult times maneuvering through
the program, Theta Psi actively works in a mentoring program
in which junior class members learn the basics of social work.
This field practicum process allows junior members to gain in-
sight into what it’s like to work at individual field locations.
If they have questions or concerns, they simply contact se-
nior members and professors in the department. In addition,
they hold member meetings at least once every month to en-
sure that all participants feel united with the organization and are
aware of upcoming events. They don’t want to leave anyone out.
If you are interested in the field of social work, visit the school’s
website at sspa.boisestate.edu/socialwork. For Phi Alpha informa-
tion, visit phialpha.org.
Theta Psi in Northern Idaho
BSU Football
Pride
Legislative Advocacy
6

9. Photo (left): A Phi Alpha member shows her support of gay rights at the Boise Pride
Festival.
Photo (above): Three Phi Alpha members show their award-winning gingerbread
house for the Gingerbread Holiday Gala fund-raiser (which won second place!).
Photo (top right): Three Phi Alpha members sit at a table while they converse with
women at a local nursing home. Often times they play cards, but today they just
talked and gave these women much needed company.
Photo (center right): Pictured are the donated clothing items at a recent homeless
rally. Monetary and tangible donations are given to homeless shelters in the Treasure
Valley.
Photo (below): Four Phi Alpha members pose for the camera at the Interfaith Sanc-
tuary shelter in downtown Boise, Idaho. This mural is on the side of the building for
all to see.
7

10. This photograph was taken at a recent homeless rally in downtown Boise. In honor of election year, this photo serves to represent the inherent right all Americans
have to vote. If you feel passionate about this civic duty, volunteer at the Election’s office to help election day run smoothly. Don’t forget to remind your friends
and family to make an educated vote on November 6.
The 2011 Phi Alpha officers want to thank everyone who participated and contributed in making it a great year to be in social work.
8

11. Two Phi Alpha members hold up their sign, proud to take part in a recent Pride parade on the Capitol steps. Pride supporters meet at the Boise Capitol,
march through downtown, and then they end up at Ann Morrison Park. At the park, there are hours of activities, entertainment, food, and more. The
Pride parade generally takes places in June of every year.
The School of Social Work would like to welcome all its new Phi Alpha Honor Society Members. Pictured above are three new members who were
officially inducted on Friday, April 13. Read more about the Phi Alpha Honor Society on page five.
Ingrid Metzger photographer
9

12. sosw welcomes new faculty
faculty researchDr. Robin Allen is focusing her research
efforts on her study: An Exploratory, Phe-
nomenological Study of Atheists, Agnostics
and Other Non-Believers. This is a large,
data intensive study that will add new
knowledge to the social work field. She
has recently presented her efforts at two
professional conferences this past year.
Dr. Gretchen Cotrell focuses her schol-
arship on Native American issues. She
is currently working on a historical and
contemporary review of the demise of the
American bison and the last wild buffalo
herd of the Yellowstone country. This
work examines the significance of the bi-
son to Native cultures, an historical review
of their near extinction in the nineteenth
century, their twentieth-century recovery, and the current threats
to their survival. Related work will summarize the findings of her
internally-funded research project on the Yellowstone bison herd, to
include a review of their current status, the controversies surround-
ing their present handling policies, and the various perspectives of
the several interested parties.
Recent scholarship: Identity and Ancestry: Sticks & Stones & Buf-
falo Bones, Council on Social Work Education, 2-18-10
Recent scholarship:
▪ Allen, R. W. (2011, February). Let’s talk about nothing. Present-
ed at Association of Baccalaureate Program Directors 28th Annual
Conference, Cincinnati, Ohio
▪ Allen, R. W. (2011, March). We believe in nothing: Theory and
research on atheists, agnostics, and other nonbelievers. Discussant at
the 82nd Annual Meeting of the Pacific Sociological Society, Seattle,
Washington.
From California to North Carolina to Idaho, we are fortunate to welcome Dr. Joelle D. Powers to the Boise State
family. Here, Dr. Powers will research schools and the mental health of children. It was her junior year in college
that she traveled to Zambia, Africa, and through her experiences in that small country, she realized that she wanted
to focus on social justice. The following semester, she took an introduction to social work class. Since then, she’s
loved every minute of her career choice.
Dr. Powers has ventured to many distant lands including Central Asia, Africa, Italy, Ireland, England, and France.
“Some of the trips were volunteer work trips, one was for research, and some were for pleasure—but all were
fantastic!” Reflecting on her world travels, Dr. Powers experienced a little bit of culture shock in every setting, but
what surprised her most was the culture shock when she moved to North Carolina 10 years ago. Because there are
so many differences between California and North Carolina, it took “three years before NC felt like home, but now
I am so glad to have lived in both the West and the South,” reflected Dr. Powers.
Married for 13 years, with two kids ages six and four, and an English bulldog named Stella, Dr. Powers believes Idaho is a great fit for her
family. She can’t wait to introduce her children to water skiing in our beautiful lakes and in the winter, skiing in the majestic, snow-covered
mountains. It took three years for Dr. Powers to call North Carolina home, but we’re hoping she can call Idaho home in only a few months.
An avid adventure seeker and fellow Boise State alumni, Raymond Mullenax, joins the SOSW team this year as field
director. After Mr. Mullenax received his philosophy degree, he pursued and obtained an MSW from BSU. “I enjoy
helping people problem-solve complex life situations, and social work is a career where I can do that on a daily basis. It is
also a profession that advocates for social justice as part of the professional culture, and I strongly believe in the values of
social justice and equality for all,” Mr. Mullenax commented.
Social work isn’t the only thing Mr. Mullenax is passionate about. He enjoys running, hiking, photography, traveling,
and spending time with friends and family. One of his biggest accomplishments is running 50 miles straight. He has
backpacked through national parks including Denali, Wrangell St. Elias, Glacier, and Yellowstone. He has run marathons
in some of the largest cities in the country including Boston and New York. “My mission is to experience nature,
wilderness, and solitude of remote places and the culture that is offered within big cities,” reflected Mr. Mullenax of his adventures.
Of his world travels, Mr. Mullenax missed Ireland most. He loved “the incredible beauty and breathtaking scenery and the hospitality and
kindness of the people who reside there.” We’re glad to have you aboard!
This year, we eagerly swept Dr. Royce Hutson from his career in Detroit, Michigan to join the BSU School of Social
Work staff. Dr. Hutson is bringing with him extensive knowledge and hands-on experience from Haiti, the Middle
East, and Europe. He primarily focuses on researching the impact of natural disasters and armed conflicts on non-
combatants/victims. He has even reported his research findings to governments, multi-lateral organizations, and non-
governmental organizations (NGOs) of the impacts of these events on international development.
Dr. Hutson’s passion to help people went into overdrive when he was working at an urban substance abuse clinic. He
realized he needed more knowledge to help people, so he went back to college and earned his doctorate. Since then, he
has helped the world over. “I think our work in Haiti after the quake had a significant positive impact on development
planning within the United Nations and other interested donor countries and NGOs. Our work in the Palestinian
refugee camps of Lebanon, I also believe, helped advance social justice objectives considerably,” commented Dr. Hutson
about his biggest accomplishments.
10

13. Dr. Bonnie Kenaley focuses her scholar-
ship primarily on children and aging.
Recent scholarship:
▪ Kenaley, B. L. (2011). Child Victimiza-
tion. Training Manual for the Idaho Vic-
tim Assistance Academy.
▪ Gellis, Z. D., Kenaley, B. McGinty, J.,
Bardelli, E., Davitt, J., & Hoyoung, L.
(2011). Outcomes of a Telehealth Inter-
vention for Homebound Older Adults with heart or Chronic Re-
spiratory Failure: A Randomized Trial. The Gerontologist, 0(0), 1-11.
doi: 10.1093/geront/gnr 134.
▪ Clarke, C. M. & Kenaley, B. L. (2011). Promoting Civility through
Student Empowerment in Nursing Education: A Merging of Two
Conceptual Models. Nursing Outlook, 59, 158-165. doi: 10.1016/j.
outlook.2010.12.005.
▪ Bronstein, L. & Kenaley, B. (2011). Learning from Vertical
NORCs: Challenges and Recommendations for Horizontal NORCs.
Journal of Housing for the Elderly, 24(3), 237-248. First published in
2011doi: 10.1177.0733464809354730.
▪ Bronstein, L.R., Gellis, Z., & Kenaley, B. (2011). A Neighborhood
Naturally Occurring Retirement Community: Views from providers
and residents. Journal of Applied Gerontology, 30(1), 104-112. First
published in 2009 doi: 10.1177.0733464809354730.
▪ Kenaley, B. & Williams, N.J. (2011). A preliminary evaluation:
Demographic and clinical profiles and changes in functioning in
children receiving psychosocial rehabilitation. Child and Youth Ser-
vices Review, 33(2), 301-307. First published in 2010 doi: 10.1016/j.
childyouth.2010.09.013
Dr. Daniel Harkness focuses his cur-
rent scholarship on social work super-
vision. His supervision text with Alfred
Kadushin, Supervision in Social Work,
is considered by many to be the basic
text on supervision for schools of social
work. He is currently working on its 5th
edition.
Kathy Tidwell’s scholarship focuses on
the school’s Refugee Services Certificate.
There is a Foundation in Refugee Ser-
vices Certificate, a Macro Certificate in
Refugee Services, and a Clinical Services
Certificate. She also serves on the Boise
Refugee Resources Strategic Communi-
ty Plan Steering Committee and on the
Social Integration Committee.
Both groups work collaboratively to create a welcoming community
for refugees resettling in Boise.
Dr. Misty Wall is focusing her research
on vulnerable and oppressed populations.
She is currently conducting a qualitative
research project involving men and wom-
en living in Idaho who are experiencing
extreme poverty. In addition, Dr. Wall is
looking for misgivings with the current
theories of multigenerational poverty. She
is also examining homophobia and het-
erosexism among incoming, advanced standing social work majors
at each of the four BSU School of Social Work locations.
Recent scholarship:
▪ Wall, M. (2011). Hearing the voices of lesbian women having
children. Journal of GLBT Family Studies, 7(1), pp 93-108.Wall, M.
(in press).
▪ Wall, M. (2012). A Lesson Brought Home from Seminar. Reflec-
tions.Wall, M. & Rainford, W. (in press).
▪ Wall, M. (2012). "I am not sure how to tell you this...Delivering
unwelcome news. The New Social Worker 19 (1).
Dr. Cynthia Sanders’ primary scholar-
ship focuses on social and economic de-
velopment including asset and wealth
accumulation primarily for women. Pro-
fessor Sanders’ scholarship concerns issues
of economic development and the role of
financial issues in the lives of women im-
pacted by domestic violence. This combi-
nation of economic and social analysis of
women, especially battered women will contribute significantly to
social work knowledge and promote social and economic justice for
women. Professor Sanders has developed a national reputation and is
in demand as a recognized national expert in microenterprise.
Recent Scholarship:
▪ Sanders, Cynthia K. (2011). Facilitating Savings and Asset Owner-
ship among Domestic Violence Survivors. Center for Financial Secu-
rity Issue Brief, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Available: http://
cfs.wisc.edu/events/DV_Workshop.aspx
▪ Book Chapter in “Financial Capability among Survivors of Do-
mestic Violence” The book, Financial Education and Capability: Re-
search, Education, Policy and Practice (Eds. Burkenmaier, Curley, &
Sherraden), is under contract with Oxford University Press.
▪ Asset Building Programs for Domestic Violence Survivors (2011).
Harrisburg, PA: VAWnet, a project of the National Resource Cen-
ter on Domestic Violence/Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domes-
tic Violence. Available: http://www.vawnet.org/special-collections/
DVAssetBuilding.php#500
▪ Bostaph, L. G., Giacomazzi, A., and Sanders, C. K. (2011). Pro-
cess and Outcome Evaluation of the Nampa Family Justice Center
and the Idaho Falls Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center.
Boise State University. Boise: ID.
▪ Sanders, C.K. (2011). Treasure Valley Economic Action Program
(TVEAP) Program Findings.
Dr. Denice Liley’s primary scholarship
focuses on aging/end of life and social
work field education. She completed a
book chapter in Elderly Victimization in
the Idaho Victim’s Academy curriculum
textbook, is a guest editor for a special
edition issue of Reflections. She has been
invited to write a chapter on field semi-
nar for graduate education in a special
edition published by BPD. Dr. Liley has several works in progress
including an M-Learning manuscript and technology in social work
practicum. She continues work on her contract with Lyceum to write
a field textbook that will be a companion to a clinical direct practice
textbook on social work theory which will add to the knowledge of
teaching social work field practicum.
Recent scholarship:
▪ Liley, D.G. (Oct, 2011). Field Director’s Fair, CSWE: Atlanta: GA.
▪ Guest Editor for special edition issue of Reflections: Field Practice –
publication in 2012.
▪ Liley, D. G. (2011). Elderly Victimization in Idaho Victim’s Acad-
emy’s Curriculum Textbook. (pp.75-103)., Boise: ID.
Dr. Roy Rodenhiser’s faculty research overview can be found on
page one.
11

14. prospective students and alumni
do you have what it takes to change lives for the better?
job placement after graduation
Students who wish to obtain a bachelor’s degree in social work (also
called the Bachelor of Social Work or BSW) must first apply and be
accepted for upper-division coursework candidacy. Applicants must
have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or a minimum
GPA of 2.8 during the two contiguous semesters of full-time
enrollment in 12 or more credits before they can apply.
There are two admission processes for starting the masters program
in social work (the Master of Social Work or MSW). All applicants
must be admitted to the Graduate College at Boise State University
in addition to the Master of Social Work Program in the School of
Social Work. Acceptance by the Graduate College does not guarantee
or constitute admission into the MSW program. Admission to our
MSW programs is decided by the MSW Admissions Committee of
the School of Social Work.
To begin upper division course work in a spring semester, students
should apply by the first Friday of October. To begin upper division
courses in a fall semester, students should apply by the first Friday
of March. Students may apply for candidacy during the semester in
which they are completing their 59-61 prerequisite credit hours. You
can find additional details at http://sspa.boisestate.edu/socialwork/.
How about a master’s degree to top that off?Do you want a bachelor’s degree in social work?
For full consideration, it is to your advantage to submit your
complete application to the school before January 1. For more
information about either of these program, please visit the School of
Social Work website at http://sspa.boisestate.edu/socialwork/.
Field Placement Percentages After Graduation
After graduation, students have numerous career options and
opportunities. For students who do not wish to venture into graduate
programs, there are still just as many job possibilities. A majority of
students graduating from the program choose to work with child
welfare services or individuals with disabilities, but several other
specializations are waiting for eager participants.
BSU’s social work program prepares its students to gain licensure
and allows them to continue their professional careers in their areas
of choice. The following chart only includes placement within the
United States. There are countless jobs abroad and with organizations
that travel overseas too!
it’s easier to find a job in social work than you might think
▪ Health and Welfare
▪ Boys and Girls Club
▪ Hospice care
▪ Adoption services
▪ Foster care
▪ Homeless shelters
▪ Idaho Chooses Life
▪ Mental health institutions
▪ Lobbying
Consider the following job options:
▪ World Wildlife Foundation
▪ Politics (state and federal)
▪ Boise Rescue Mission
▪ Counseling
▪ Americorps
▪ Peace Corps
▪ Bibles for America
▪ Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho
▪ Teen Challenge
12

15. master’s degree program
bachelor’s degree program
Ingrid Metzger photographer
The Master’s Degree of Social Work (also called the Master of
Social Work or MSW) degree is a two-year, full time graduate
program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education
(CSWE). Students learn clinical, organizational, policy-related, and
administrative skills that are necessary for the promotion of social
and economic justice. Program goals are to prepare students to work
with agency-based organizations in addition to respecting culturally
sensitive practices founded on strengths, diversity, and ecological
theories. Dr. Joelle D. Powers coordinates this program.
In 1974, Boise State University was accredited by the Council on
Social Work Education to offer a baccalaureate degree in social work.
The program prepares students for social work licensure, advanced
degrees, and above all, rewarding careers before and after graduation.
Since then, thousands of students have successfully completed this
program.
Under the direction of Dr. Cynthia Sanders, BSW program
coordinator, students work with individuals, families, households,
groups, and communities. Students show these people and groups
ways to cope with problems, how to show emotional support, and
how to deal with broader challenges such as violence and social
inequality that affect all people.
Students must apply and be accepted into the program after
completing their general coursework. The courses are offered in
blocks and include a 600-hour practicum. The SOSW wants all
its students to experience direct relationships with community
organizations. Courses span over a wide variety of topics including:
▪ welfare policy
▪ human behavior
▪ research methods
▪ child welfare
▪ ethics
▪ individual hardships
▪ diversity
▪ interpersonal communication
Dr. Roy “Butch” Rodenhiser, director, encourages all interested students
to apply for the baccalaureate program at BSU. The SOSW is looking
for self-motivated individuals who have passion for helping those less
fortunate.
learn from one of the most rigorous programs in the country
Overview of the MSW program
Curriculum
The curriculum has a two-year framework, with a professional
foundation the first year and an advanced, direct-practice with
individuals and families concentration the second year. The
professional foundation year emphasizes knowledge, skills, and
values for strength-based social work practice with individuals,
families, households, groups, organizations, and communities.
During the foundation year, all students are required to take at
least one course in each of the following foundation areas: human
behavior and social environment, social welfare policy and services,
social work practice, research, and field practicum. The second year
of the MSW curriculum offers one concentration: advanced direct
practice with individuals and families. The concentration is shaped
by the following three themes:
▪ the development of independent inquiry
▪ a commitment to the tradition of promoting social and economic
justice and equality
▪ a commitment to individual and family well-being
MSW Beyond the Treasure Valley
The Northern Idaho Advanced Standing MSW program started
in June 2006 at the Lewiston and Coeur d'Alene campuses. This
program is for students who have already obtained their BSW
degrees. Since 2008, the school is also offering a BSW and MSW in
Twin Falls.
In addition, a three-year Full-Program MSW is routinely available
(It's typically a course that starts every three years and depends on
applicants.) to students in Lewiston, Twin Falls, and Coeur d'Alene.
As of August 2008, the Northern Idaho Advanced Standing MSW
may be completed in one year of full-time study or two years of half-
time study. All Northern Idaho MSW programs are accredited as
part of the Boise State University MSW Program.
The Boise-based cohort begins with a five-week daytime summer
session, followed by two full semesters. The cohorts in Lewiston,
Twin Falls, and Coeur d'Alene begin with an eight-week evening
summer session and follow with two semesters of evening and
weekend classes.
Boise State MSW programs are intentionally small. They offer an
informal climate conducive to obtaining the knowledge and skills
necessary for successful, advanced, and professional direct-practice
in social work. A variety of practicum placements are used that can
be matched to the student's career goals.
Practicum sites range from urban, inpatient psychiatric facilities to
social service agencies in small, frontier communities. The mission
and objectives of the MSW program have been formulated to
reflect the human resource needs of Idaho and the northern Rocky
Mountain region.
13

16. Sheila Knezevich
helping children find healthy homes
bsu alumna works in adoption unit at health and welfare
A typical day for Sheila Knezevich involves helping foster children
find permanent homes. Every day she places children—who can-
not return to their parents for various reasons—with loving families
across the Treasure Valley. Sheila works in Family and Children Ser-
vices for the Department of Health and Welfare. She strives to assist
the children with a combination of her helpful spirit and passion for
social justice.
One of the biggest roles of her job is to promote adoption and
foster care to all interested parties. It’s her job to explain the odds
and ends of adopting and becoming a foster parent to people who
want more information. She elaborates on the typical questions like
what to expect and how to prepare for a new addition to the family.
Her job is to make the transition as smooth as possible-especially
for the foster and adopted children. Sheila is also an active mem-
ber for the Idaho Post Adoption Center in Boise. It’s people like
Sheila and her coworkers who help harbor abandoned, abused, and
neglected children.
As Sheila reflected on her career, she said she feels the most re-
warded when she sees, “the changes people make when provided the
right resources. I get to help families who want to make changes and
remove the barriers that prevent those changes.”
Throughout her years in Health and Welfare, she has seen some cat-
astrophic events that leave children in horrifying situations. Some-
times those circumstances relieve themselves through parents’ hard
work and dedication to their children, but sometimes things don’t
change. In the end, “I like knowing I am making a difference for
children and their families.”
The idea of strong values and ethics steered Sheila toward the field
of social work, and in 1999, Sheila Knezevich graduated with a Bach-
elor of Arts. From this major accomplishment to the many she has
This may not be Shelia Knezevich, but this is a healthy representation
of the adoption unit. Many women are looking for options to adopt,
and the Department of Health and Welfare should be the first place to
look.
You have opportunities to change
children’s lives every day—and
some days, you save lives.
“
”
Photo credit: http://www.squidoo.com/TheBabyMarket
achieved since her monumental commencement, Sheila continues to
change lives, and for that, she deserves recognition.
In ten years, Sheila hopes to be retired, but her desire for social
work will not relent. She plans on actively engaging in community
service—but something not so stressful. “I will be advocating for
something, for someone, somewhere,” Shelia said of her retirement.
Sheila shared a strong recommendation for those who wish to
pursue social work as a career: “Child welfare is not for sissies. People
often are not happy to see you at their doors. The work hours can be
long and inconvenient. But you have opportunities to change chil-
dren’s lives every day—and some days, you save lives.”
This is not a job that everyone can do, let alone do well. As a child
welfare supervisor in Family and Children Services, Sheila feels the
joy—and often heartache—of the children’s whose lives she touches
every day. That is, after all, the spirit of social work.
14

17. Kristen Nate (center) at the Maaco Bowl showing her school spirit along with Misty Myatt
(left) and Tamara Cox (right), her two coworkers and fellow BSU grads.
saving idaho’s youth one child at a time
Kristen Nate
bsu alumna passionately serves in her free time and at work
Kristen Nate possesses an inherent passion for helping others. This
is what drove her to obtain her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in
social work from Boise State. She currently works at the Department
of Health and Welfare as a child welfare supervisor. She oversees
seven social workers (case managers) who each carry their own case
loads of families with children in foster care. Before Kristen mer-
ited this position, she worked as a case manager for six years. In
this position, she worked to reunify children with their parents. If
reuniting was not a possibility, she helped make alternative, perma-
nent plans for the children. These solutions included termination
of parental rights and adoption or legal guardianship with a rela-
tive. Her other tasks included working
closely with children, birth families,
relatives, foster families, and com-
munity partners including schools,
counselors, other treatment providers,
psychiatrists, and the court system.
Kristen admitted the favorite aspect
of her job is to work with children
and other individuals in need. “There are so many rewarding things
about social work—probably the most rewarding is seeing successful
cases and knowing that you made a difference to someone. Many of
the relationships between families and social workers that begin in
child welfare do not start out on a positive note. When you are able
at the end of a case to shake each other’s hands or give each other a
hug, you know you’ve made an impact. I have continued to maintain
contact with some families, children who have aged out of foster
care, and children/families who have adopted. These are relation-
ships that I cherish and am very thankful for,” commented Kristen.
Kristen volunteered at her church, Shepherd of
the Valley, as a council member and regularly as-
sists with the youth program there. She is also active
in a project at her church called One Church One
Child, a program offered through the Department
of Health and Welfare. This organization works
closely with the faith-based communities to identify
possible foster/adoptive homes for children. One
Church One Child also assists the faith-based com-
munity to support the family identified to foster/
adopt a child/sibling group, and works concurrently
with the faith community to identify ways they can
help other children and families within the child
welfare system. In addition to these projects, Kristen
also volunteers at A Better Way Home hospice care.
In high school, Kristen was in an unhealthy rela-
tionship. She noticed her boyfriend’s behavior was
cyclical (initiated by his father), and she wanted to
reach out to the community through child welfare
to educate and “empower the oppressed and vul-
nerable.” She admits this dysfunctional relationship
is the reason she took an interest in social work.
Kristen believes a great way to get involved is to become a foster par-
ent, a need the state can never sufficiently fill. When children enter
foster care, many times they leave their personal belongings behind.
By donating “hygiene backpacks” the community can play a vi-
tal role in the lives of these scattered children. The main needs are
shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hair brushes and underwear
among other items. Some alternate items may include blankets
and stuffed animals, as some children find comfort in these tan-
gible items. Many children enter foster care with little to eat, so
gift cards to various fast food restaurants are always welcome. To
do any of these, you can contact the Department at 334-6800.
Kristen added, “Any type of preventative work you can do with
a family is always helpful, i.e. volunteer-
ing with after-school programs, parent
education/mentor programs, tutoring
programs, Big Brother/Big Sister, etc.
All of these opportunities strength-
en our families and communities.”
To become physically active in fos-
ter children’s lives, Idaho is always
looking for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) who
work directly with the court on the child’s behalf. To contact
CASA, call (208) 345-3344. People who are interested in fos-
ter care can dial 211 for an application packet or visit www.
healthandwelfare.idaho.gov for more detailed information.
Please understand that all individuals residing in the state of Idaho
are mandatory reporters. If you know of, suspect, or have concerns
about a child who is being abused or neglected in some way, please
call (208)334-6870 to file a report in the Treasure Valley, or call 211
to be transferred to the appropriate region.
Kristen Nate
“
”
I thought that working in
child welfare would be one way to
educate the community about the cycle of
abuse while empowering the oppressed and
vulnerable.
15

18. 16
sosw offers refugee certificates
idaho child welfare scholars program
The Idaho Child Welfare Scholars Program provides education,
experience, and a stipend for BSW and MSW students who are
committed to the field of child welfare. Funded through Title
IV-E of the Social Security Act, the stipend is awarded to eligible
students who agree to work in Child and Family Services at the
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Students accepted into
the program receive:
▪ Education-access to a variety of child welfare resources and
training programs
▪ Experience-placement in public and/or private child welfare
agencies
▪ Stipend-the amount of money awarded corresponds to the
employment duration that the students agrees to complete after
graduation
Children are placed into alternate care for various reasons including
neglect, abandonment, and/or abuse. The number of children in
alternate care in the state of Idaho jumped from 747 in 1993 to
2,382 in 2003, which caused overwhelming demands for child
welfare workers. In 2003, the Child Welfare Scholars Program was
implemented in order to attract and retain larger, highly skilled child
welfare workers.
To apply, visit the Child Welfare Center homepage at http://sspa.
boisestate.edu/socialwork/institute/scholars/ and click on the link to
download the application.
-Gaylee May
former child welfare scholar
“
”
My attraction to the program was entirely due
to the fact that I want to work with
children with my social work degree... The
money and the idea of working with the
Department of Health and Welfare for one year
upon graduation was incentive as well.
idaho health and welfare makes it easy to succeed after graduation
Idaho happens to house thousands of refugees from around the
world, and the number continues to rise every year. Refugees are
people whose lives are in danger due (but not limited) to various
political, socioeconomic, and religious reasons. Some examples
include ethnic cleansing, genocide, political dissidents, and people
persecuted for their religious beliefs.
The Boise State School of Social Work recognized the need to raise
refugee awareness and prepared accordingly. As of fall semester 2011,
the SOSW offers several programs aimed specifically at helping
refugees. These programs are directed toward anyone who will work
directly with refugees: student social workers at undergraduate and
graduate levels, criminal justice majors, nursing majors, and teachers.
Currently, these certificates are offered for both continuing
education credit and full academic credit. “These new programs
are answering a need in the community to provide more academic
support for people serving the growing refugee population in the
region,” said Dr. Roy Rodenhiser, director of the School of Social
Work. “We are offering something that is vital to the health of the
community and is a commitment by Boise State and the School of
Social Work to meet the needs of a very vulnerable segment of the
area’s population.”
Idaho has provided shelter to refugees since the 1980s. At the
time, most of the refugees came from Asia. Today, most of Idaho’s
refugees are African and Eastern European. With the continued war
in the Middle East, Idaho sees an increase in refugees from Iraq, Iran,
and Afghanistan. The refugee programs will focus on the settling of
refugees, overcoming cultural barriers, and communication tactics.
Other courses include case management and clinical services.
“Without these programs, we cannot meet the needs of this
hard-to-serve population,” said Kathy Tidwell, director of Boise
State’s Institute for Families and Communities. “We have seen that
quality of service is not where it should be, and we need much more
awareness among people who work with this population.”
Evelyne Ortiz-Yadav photographer
BSU hopes to expand the class selection in the future, and they will
continue to work with the rufugee community and the Idaho Office
for Refugees.

19. organization of student social workers
The Organization of Student Social Workers (OSSW) offers
learning experiences for Boise State University students in the
areas of administration, leadership, policy decision making, and
organizational skills development. The OSSW was established at
Boise State University in 1974, and continues to provide students
with current information and knowledge along with a sense of
community around the profession of social work.
Students who have declared a major in social work including
graduate students in the master's degree program are already
considered members of the OSSW. The goal of the OSSW is to
create a unified and cohesive class of students in the School of Social
Work, with common goals in education and beyond. The OSSW
believes in group synergy and open communication, with the hope
of increasing the influence of social work on campus and in the
community.
OSSW members are regularly involved in community activities
and service projects. It is through these efforts that student social
workers take an active role in the community. As OSSW membership
is not only rewarding but a great opportunity to meet new people
who share the same interests. This membership further supports the
OSSW's goal to create a unified and cohesive class of students in the
Boise State University School of Social Work program.
One of the many goals of OSSW this school year is to foster a
welcoming and accepting environment, all the while encouraging
a variety of people to partake in our organization. The OSSW
partakes in many fund-raisers and service projects. Their main fund-
raising resource is operating concessions at the Taco Bell Arena in
cohesion with Aramark. Taking an active role and volunteering at the
concessions is a great opportunity to meet new and friendly people
who share the same ideologies and interests.
stay connected
Even if you have graduated and moved on from Boise State, the
School of Social Work still wants to hear from you. Drop us a line
at the address below, or give us a call. We would even enjoy it if you
visited us at the office. Let us know how you're doing, and let us
know what we can do to help you or the community. The SOSW is
always looking for community service projects. We're always up to
help with fund-raisers and raise awareness around Idaho.
208.426.1568
Give us a call:
Send us a letter or postcard:
Boise State University School of Social Work
1910 University Dr, MS 1940
Boise, ID 83725
Visit us in the office:
We're located on the 7th floor of the Education
Building.
Ingrid Metzger photographer
support the sosw
You can send scholarship contributions to Boise State SOSW or
through the Boise State University Foundation.
Mail your contributions to:
The Boise State University Foundation
2225 W. University Dr.
Boise, ID 83706
We appreciate your help!
Many of our students rely on scholarships and grants. Show support
by making a contribution. Every little bit helps, and remember, it's
tax deductible! Nothing gives back to the community more than
helping students achieve their educational aspirations. Please call
our Director of Development, Rik Jung, at 208.426.3715 for more
information, or make a donation online from the SOSW homepage.
Check us out online:
http://sspa.boisestate.edu/socialwork
17

20. Summer/Fall 2012
School of Social Work
1910 University Drive
Education Building
Boise, Idaho 83725-1940
http://sspa.boisestate.edu/socialwork
PLACE
POSTAGE
HERE