Message from Dr. Stevara Haley Clark: Unveiling an unstoppable fall semester ahead
Dear School of Social Work students,
Welcome to the first day of classes (FDOC) for the fall semester! We are unbelievably excited to kick off this new academic year with you, whether you’re joining us on campus or virtually. After the summer break, we hope you are feeling undeniably refreshed and ready to dive into a semester full of unparalleled opportunities and growth.
This fall, we’re thrilled to have welcomed a vibrant new group of students to our VCUSSW Ramily. Together, we now stand over 1,133 strong, united in our commitment to making a difference through social work.
UNlocking Resources and Connections:
- SSWeekly: Starting this semester, our SSWeekly email newsletter will be your go-to source for staying informed. Keep an eye on your inbox every Tuesday for updates on unmissable events, key dates and deadlines, scholarships, and all the latest news and announcements from the school.
- Advisors: Our Office of Student Success (OSS) advisors are unwavering in their dedication to your success. You can schedule a meeting with them on campus or online, and you’re always welcome to drop by during business hours. If your assigned advisor isn’t available, any member of our team will gladly assist. Don’t hesitate – reach out whenever you need support. We are here to help you every step of the way.
- Faculty Office Hours: Take full advantage of your instructors’ office hours, a unique opportunity to connect, ask questions and deepen your understanding. Check your course syllabus for details on when and where office hours will be held, whether in person or online.
- SSW CommUnity Connections: I am available whenever you need me. However, every third Tuesday at 11 a.m. ET join me for SSW CommUnity Connections. Join me in shaping a supportive and interconnected academic environment where every student plays a vital role in our CommUnity! Come, be a catalyst for meaningful dialogue as we journey through the academic landscape together. You can join face to face on campus (Academic Learning Commons, Room 3102F, in the dean’s suite) or virtually through Zoom (see the SSWeekly email for the link).
UNcompromised Support:
As you navigate the exciting challenges and opportunities this semester brings, remember that the entire School of Social Work is unwaveringly here to support you. We are committed to making this semester not just unforgettable, but truly extraordinary.
We also want to underscore VCU’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. If you require any accommodations, please connect with the Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity (SAEO) office. We are here to ensure your educational journey is as unimpeded and empowering as possible. If you have any questions or concerns about your accommodations being implemented in the classroom, please feel free to reach out to me directly.
Let’s make this fall semester unforgettable, uncommon, and unstoppable! We look forward to seeing you at our SSW CommUnity Connections sessions and throughout the year.
Warm regards,
Stevara Haley Clark, Ed.D, M.S.W.
Interim Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs
VCU School of Social Work