The University of Iowa School of Social Work

Director's Message

Edward J. Saunders

Associate Professor
Director, School of Social Work
The University of Iowa
330 North Hall, Iowa City, IA 52242
Phone: (319)335-3316
Email: edward-saunders@uiowa.edu


"Hello!" from The University of Iowa School of Social Work. I have been proud to call the School my "academic home" for 28 years. I hope that what has kept me here for so long will also draw you to the School. Among those reasons is a steadfast commitment to the core values of the social work profession: service, social and economic justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, and integrity and culturally competent practice. Faculty and staff in the BASW, MSW and PhD programs on four campuses embrace these values in their teaching, research and professional service activities. The School attracts students with the same values and this "harmony of purpose" is always energizing and deeply rewarding.

The School of Social Work offers many special initiatives, including opportunities to explore and experience cultural diversity. As part of our celebration of diversity, we co-sponsor a statewide conference on Latino issues and offer service learning courses in Mexico and India. We offer two undergraduate certificates; in Aging Studies and Critical Cultural Competence. We also offer specializations in school social work,, aging, end- of-life and child welfare, and the School manages a coffee-shop staffed by persons with disabilities. The National Resource Center for Family-Centered Practice (a nationally-known training and research center), is home to the Disproportionate Minority Contact Center and the National Center for In-Home Services.

We have created an environment in the School that I believe is warm and welcoming, and, at the same time, energizing and professionally rewarding. If you have a professional social work interest, you'll likely find someone who shares it here: we are very eclectic in our interests. For all these reasons (and many more, as you may discover), I've never wanted to leave Iowa. Consider making it your "academic home" too!