Maha N. Younes
University of Nebraska-Kearney
As a baccalaureate program director at a public
institution, I am keenly aware of the never-ending challenges, limited resources, and the inadequate supports that confront
social work directors and programs. After fourteen years in social work education, which includes the last two years as a
Program Director, I am in awe at the resilience of social work programs and the devotion of directors and faculty. As a BPD member for the last two years, I am grateful for the positive peer group that it has provided,
the sense of empowerment that I walk away with every time I attend a BPD conference, and the wonderful listserv that is always
a great source of information.
As a BPD board member, I will
bring a fresh multicultural perspective that promotes BPD's continued success. I believe that programs need more support
and direction in dealing with recruitment and retention issues, faculty shortage, professional image and visibility, and preserving
programs in the midst of institutional cuts. Being a Program Director is burdensome, and I would foster the growth and
success of BPD's newly established mentoring program for new directors.
BPD is a critical support system for social work directors and
faculty. Its role is becoming increasingly critical as our programs and profession
face an uncertain but also promising future. It would be my privilege to serve
on the board and to work with all of you.
