About the Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work
Dr. Isiah Marshall, Dean
(757) 823-8122
We Prepare Leaders Who Transform Communities.
For more than six decades, the Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work at Norfolk State University has prepared compassionate, ethical, and highly skilled social workers committed to advancing social justice and improving the lives of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
As one of Virginia's premier social work programs, we combine academic excellence with meaningful community engagement, research, global learning, and professional development to prepare graduates who are ready to lead in an ever-changing world.
Whether serving in schools, hospitals, behavioral health agencies, child welfare, nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, government agencies, or private practice, our graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to create lasting change.
Our Mission
The Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work educates and empowers a diverse community of learners to become ethical, competent, and culturally responsive social work professionals through excellence in teaching, research, field education, leadership, and community engagement.
Grounded in the values of the social work profession, we prepare graduates who advocate for equity, strengthen communities, and promote human well-being at the local, national, and global levels.
Our Vision
To be a nationally recognized leader in social work education that transforms lives through innovation, scholarship, leadership, and community partnership.
Why Norfolk State Social Work?
At Norfolk State University, learning extends beyond the classroom.
Students gain hands-on experience through:
- Clinical and community-based field education
- Faculty-led research
- International study abroad opportunities
- Professional conferences
- Leadership development
- Legislative advocacy
- Community service
- Student organizations
- Networking with practitioners
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
These experiences prepare graduates for successful careers while fostering the confidence and leadership skills necessary to make a meaningful impact.
Our Core Values
Everything we do is guided by the values of the social work profession.
Integrity
Preparing ethical professionals committed to responsible practice.
Social Justice
Advancing equity and advocating alongside communities.
Service
Partnering with communities to create meaningful change.
Excellence
Maintaining high standards in teaching, scholarship, and practice.
Innovation
Developing creative solutions to complex social challenges.
Leadership
Preparing graduates who influence policy, practice, research, and education.
Learning Through Experience
Students have opportunities to participate in:
✔ Annual Ethics Summit
✔ Financial Social Work Conference
✔ International Study Abroad Programs
✔ Undergraduate & Graduate Research
✔ Community-Based Learning
✔ Field Education
✔ Leadership Conferences
✔ Professional Networking Events
✔ Social Work Month Programming
✔ Legislative Advocacy
Community Partnerships
The School collaborates with more than 100 agencies, schools, hospitals, behavioral health organizations, nonprofit organizations, and governmental partners throughout Hampton Roads and beyond.
These partnerships provide students with exceptional field placements while creating opportunities for collaborative research, service, advocacy, and community engagement.
Together, we are improving communities while educating future social work leaders.
Our Students Graduate Ready To...
- Lead organizations
- Advocate for social justice
- Provide clinical services
- Influence policy
- Conduct research
- Build healthier communities
- Advance equity
- Improve lives
Behold the Green and Gold.
At the Ethelyn R. Strong School of Social Work, we don't simply prepare students for careers.
We prepare ethical leaders who strengthen communities and transform lives.
