Office of Indigenous Pathways in Social Work

Supporting Indigenous students, scholarship, and communities.

The Office of Indigenous Pathways in Social Work strengthens Indigenous student success, advances Indigenous-centered social work scholarship, and deepens reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities.

What is the Office of Indigenous Pathways in Social Work?

The Office of Indigenous Pathways in Social Work (OIPSW) is a centralized, community-guided center within the School of Social Welfare that strengthens Indigenous student success, advances Indigenous-centered social work scholarship, and deepens reciprocal partnerships with Indigenous communities, including those at Haskell Indian Nations University, with other Indigenous students, faculty, staff, and departments, and tribal nations across Kansas and the U.S.

The office builds on existing School commitments to Indigenous communities while creating financial and academic support, mentoring, and programming.

Mission

The Office of Indigenous Pathways in Social Work (CIPSW) serves to support Indigenous student success, strengthen Indigenous community partnerships, and advance Indigenous-centered social work scholarship within the School of Social Welfare.

Services

Student Support and Success

Assists in coordinating outreach and recruitment for the Native American School of Social Welfare (NASSW) Scholarship.
Coordinates an Indigenous student network and mentorship pipeline of faculty and alumnae.
Offers ongoing professional advising, development, cultural wellness support and academic support.
Offers dedicated advising hours to help navigate challenges of a large research university.

Community Partnerships

Continues collaboration with Haskell Indian Nations University and other tribal colleges and universities, tribal partners, KU Indigenous academic and support unit, and community partners.
Aids to strengthen culturally grounded practicum placements as guided by the KU School of Social Welfare Practicum Education Office.
Co-creates and sponsors community-led projects and events.

Scholarship and Curriculum

Supports faculty and student Indigenous-centered scholarship.
Facilitates scholarship partnerships with tribal colleges and universities, including students and faculty at Haskell Indian Nations University.