A Message from Interim Dean Ronnie Glassman, MA, DSW, LCSW

Dear Students:

We welcome you to Wurzweiler School of Social Work and to Yeshiva University. We look forward to our joint venture, and we thank you for choosing us. Our graduates have gone on to become extraordinary practitioners and leaders in many programs nationally and internationally.

Through our curriculum, our stellar faculty, and your field work experience, you will learn social work skills. As a Wurzweiler student you will have a chance to help others, to make a difference, to meet the needs of vulnerable people, and to make social change.

All professions have a body of knowledge, a code of ethics, and a unique skill set. Through the knowledge and values considered in your classes you will transform your desire to help into professional skill at your field placements. You will develop the conscious use of self – the ability to use yourself purposefully as an instrument of help and change.

You are mandated to approach clients’ humanity, to support their dignity and worth, and to engage clients nonjudgmentally. Clients will privilege you with their truths -- realities they may never have told to anyone else. Through field supervision, you will have opportunities to help individuals and families, to facilitate and plan groups, and to support community development.

And then on another note, you will all contribute to each other’s learning through the class and field work experience. You are all part of the shared journey.

Social work education requires you to challenge yourself, to be honest and trustworthy as you endeavor to meet the needs of your clients. This unique learning experience is transformational. On behalf of our faculty and staff, we are privileged to be part of your journey.

Wishing you all the best,