KSU School of Social Work Alumni Ashlyn Sanders and Kaiya Dandy Shine in the Council on Aging’s Emerging Professionals Program
Kentucky State University’s (KSU) School of Social Work is excited to celebrate the achievements of two exceptional 2024 graduates, Ashlyn Sanders and Kaiya Dandy, who have successfully completed the Emerging Professionals Program with the Council on Aging.
The Council on Aging’s Emerging Professionals Program when combined with Kentucky State University’s gerontology minor, offers recent social work graduates real-world experience in the aging services field. The program offers paid, hands-on case management training over a nine-month period, which includes shadowing experienced professionals, leadership check-ins, and various site visits. To qualify, participants must have earned a bachelor’s degree in social work within two years of the program’s start date. This program is designed to prepare new professionals for success in social work, particularly in the aging population. After graduating from this program, participants are placed on a career track that prepares them for leadership roles within the organization, offering opportunities for long-term career growth and advancement.
During their participation in the program, Sanders and Dandy contributed immensely to the day-to-day operations at the Council on Aging. Their hard work and commitment to the organization have earned them recognition as key members of the team that make an impact not only through their direct service to clients but also by embodying the core values of social work. Sanders and Dandy’s success testifies to the value of experiential learning and the hands-on opportunities provided through the School of Social Work’s Field Education program at KSU.
“We are deeply grateful to the Council on Aging for offering this invaluable program and providing Ashlyn and Kaiya with the opportunity to grow professionally,” said Dr. Angela Williams, Interim Chair, Director of Field Education, and Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work. “We are excited to continue our partnership with them and look forward to exploring more opportunities for our students to gain meaningful work experience.”
The future of social work at KSU is bright, and the School of Social Work remains dedicated to supporting the professional growth of its students and alumni.
