May 1, 2025
NATCHITOCHES – A large group of students and faculty from Northwestern State University’s Department of Social Work got a close look at the workings of state government and the importance of advocacy during a two-day visit to Baton Rouge April 23-24. The group participated in an open session at the State Capitol, were recognized on the Senate floor and spent meaningful time at the Department of Children and Family Services to learn more about that department’s programs.
“I learned so much about DCFS, how bills are passed at the State Capitol, and even got insight into the criminal justice system,” said Tyliayah Smith of Minden. “It opened my eyes to how many moving parts are involved in creating real change. One thing that stood out to me the most was the idea that even when we think we have the perfect solution to a problem, we have to look at how that solution impacts everyone else. It’s not just about what works for one group, it’s about finding a balance that benefits the whole city, state or even country.”
The students split into groups to attend House and Senate committee hearings that addressed health and welfare, education and governmental affairs and met with Senators Alan Seabaugh (District 31) and Jay Luneau (District 29) and Representatives Gabe Firment (District 22) and Jason DeWitt (District 25). After meeting with legislators and state officials, they attended House Judiciary, House Labor and House Municipal and Parochial Affairs hearings.
David Matlock, secretary for the Department of Children and Family Services, and several colleagues welcomed the group and opened discussions on the many ways DCFS serves children and families in Louisiana through Centralized Intake, Child Protective Services, Family Services, prevention, foster care, home development, recruiters, behavioral health, specialized care, adoptions and extended foster care. NSU alum Connie Guillory, deputy assistant secretary for Child Welfare, led a scholar-to-career talk with the students.
Students also took part in trainings that focused on trauma-informed care with child welfare professionals and a session with Dr. Andrew Fultz, Louisiana Title IV-E Program Manager, presenting on Louisiana’s Child Welfare Training Academy/University Alliance Strategic Partnership. Title IV-E initiatives stem from a grant that supports scholars at eight Louisiana universities pursuing careers that will impact child welfare. Northwestern State is the state’s Title IV-E lead university.
Social Work Assistant Professor Kirby Peddy organized the excursion by working with DCFS staff members Bret Hanemann, director of public relations for DCFS, and Melissa Horton, executive staff officer. Faculty who accompanied the group were Fultz, Lisa Mount, IV-E coordinator and assistant professor, and Dr. Maryanne Candley, coordinator of the Master of Social Work program.
“This experience was incredibly enriching for our students and faculty alike,” Peddy said. “It especially offered hands-on experience for those students enrolled in our Social Welfare Policy course, as it directly supports their current learning of the Social Work Competency – Engaging in Policy Practice, as well as supporting our Title IV-E students in understanding the importance of Child Welfare services and how they assist and support children and families in the state of Louisiana.”
“The information was informative and interesting on the process of how to get a bill passed into law,” said Amanda Spraggins of Shreveport. “This experience was definitely an eye opener of behind the scene of how it all comes together, the good bad and the ugly.”
“We talked a lot about compromise, and I took away that common ground doesn’t always mean total agreement,” Smith said. “It means understanding different perspectives and finding a path that does the most good. I appreciated hearing from professionals who do this work every day, and it made me even more passionate about helping others and being part of positive change. This trip reminded me why I want to work in this field. It’s about more than just policies. It’s about people.”
“This opportunity has provided our students with invaluable insights and practical experience that will undoubtedly enhance their professional development. I know that our students will never forget this trip,” Peddy said.
Information on NSU’s Department of Social Work is available at https://www.nsula.edu/socialwork/.
Pictured: Students and faculty from Northwestern State University’s Department of Social Work spent two days at the Louisiana State Capitol to learn about policy and governance. On the front row from left are Adjunct Professor Trini Gibson, Artisha Waldrup of Natchitoches, Assistant Professor Kirby Peddy, Alexandra Whittlesey-Stapp of Sicily Island, Malachya Lilly of Zwolle, Chloe Vascocu or Robeline, Rylie Grice of Natchitoches, Eva Perry of DeRidder, Kaci Green of Keithville, Makenna Cates of Quitman, IV-E Coordinator/Assistant Professor Lisa Mount, NSU Chief of Staff Drake Owens and Melissa Horton, DCFS Executive Advisor to the Secretary. On the second row are Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel, Jarae Neal of Destrehan, Jakobie McCormick of Franklinton, Amanda Spraggins of Shreveport, Anayah Allen of Jonesboro, Jadyn Brunk of Alexandria, Tamera Burney of Benton, Tyliayah Smith of Minden, Nilah Pollard of Shreveport and NSU President James Genovese. On the back row are Dr. Andrew Fultz, Louisiana Title IV-E program manager, Manford Marcantel of Mamou and Dr. MaryAnne Candley, MSW coordinator.
