Evelyn Tomaszewski

Class of 1980 (BSW) & Class of 1985 (MSW) / MSW Program Director and Assistant Professor at George Mason University

My BSW internship at Legal Aid Society connected me to community and interdisciplinary work, and the programs generalist approach prepared me for my first job at a domestic violence shelter where I further developed skills across the micro-mezzo-macro levels of practice. Several years later, I completed the advanced standing MSW program, and the program’s integrated practice approach, with my own interest in community organizing and administration, set the foundation for a career in policy practice, education and advocacy. My time and relationships through both my BSW and MSW led to opportunities with local and federal government agencies and organizations, to be a lobbyist with West Virginia NASW, program director and policy advisor with the National Association of Social Workers national office, and now as MSW Program Director at George Mason University. To today’s student: be creative, build transferable skills across practice areas, follow your passion and adapt to new opportunities, take time to connect with your WVU community (and beyond) to grow your expertise and to build connections. Be the change!

Why did you choose to study social work?

The inequities that were visible in my own community and in the larger society, seeing how people and communities (and even societies) can find a way to have their voices heard and create positive change - this all created a desire to really be part of those creating safer and better communities. And as I entered social work, I began to realize this interest or passion was really about wanting to work for social justice and equal rights.

Are there any special moments or memories from the program that you'd like to share?

Fantastic faculty committed to anti-racism, feminist practice, and diversity and inclusion.