My Journey to Social Work: Ashley Staton
NASW-NC would like to introduce you to the new 2015-2016 NASW-NC Board of Directors.
Each of our amazing board members chose the profession of social work for a reason and we would like to share their stories with you. Stay tuned for a post about each of the social workers who represent YOU on the NASW-NC Board.
Ashley Staton, MSW, LCSW
Central District Representative
My journey to the wonderful profession of social work began after I graduated from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University where I received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and minor Psychology. During that time, I focused specifically on youth within the legal system and pursued internships among various county juvenile detention facilities. I also participated in an internship program located at the Department of Energy within the Office of Security and Safety Performance and the Office of Hearings and Appeals. I encountered a variety of experiences which heightened my awareness of socio-economic disparities and the lack of resources available to the individuals served within various capacities. As a result, I found myself engaging in advocacy efforts to bring these disparities to the surface which sparked my interest within the field.
Immediately after graduation, I attended the University of South Carolina-Columbia to pursue a Master of Social Work degree. During that time, I was an active member of the Phi Alpha Social Work Honors Society and conducted research geared toward abuse and neglect among children. I gained valuable experience working with youth who endured psychiatric challenges, physical/ emotional abuse, and neglect. Furthermore, identifying resources to address socio-economic disparities and educational tools to reinforce healthy parenting related to emotional bonding and safety.
After I obtained my Master of Social Work degree, I immediately began my journey to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. During this time, I was introduced to phenomenal mentors who connected me with the NASW organization. I am currently a member of the NASW for the purpose of staying connected to the ground breaking changes social workers are making within the field. I decided to serve on the NASW Board of Directors to give back to a profession that gave so much to me throughout the last few years of my career.
I am currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center located in Durham, North Carolina.
———
Learn more about the NASW-NC Board of Directors and what NASW-NC does for the social work profession in North Carolina
Learn more about past and present NASW-NC Board Members.
NASW-NC Social Work Blog 