Annually, one BSW and one MSW student from each accredited social work program in the state is nominated to receive the NASW-Michigan Social Work Student of the Year Award. Each student is recognized during a special awards ceremony. This year’s ceremony will be held virtually on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 6 - 8 pm EST.

Nominations are accepted from each of the CSWE accredited BSW and MSW social work programs. Student Social Workers of the Year should be selected based on the following criteria:

• Demonstrated leadership qualities 
• Contribution to the positive image of a social work program
• Commitment to political and community activities
• Success in academic performance
• Degree to which the student represents the professional ethics of social work as defined in the NASW Code of Ethics 
• Active NASW member (Learn more about NASW membership and join here)

Nominations can be submitted by students, faculty and staff. Self-nominations are also accepted. The deadline for nominations is Monday, February 10, 2025.

Submit a nomination

A panel composed of the Assistant Dean, BSW and MSW Directors and academic advisors will review all nominations and select one BSW and one MSW student of the year for WSU SSW. 

Awardees will be able to give a short (<5 minute) speech addressing their accomplishments, advocacy work and/or thank yous. Awardees will also be published in The Bridge newsletter and highlighted on the NASW Michigan website. You can view last year’s recipients here.  

For questions contact the WSU School of Social Work at 313-577-4409 or sswadmissions@wayne.edu.