The History of the Social Work and Family Studies Department

In the annals of St. Olaf College’s rich history, the emergence of the Social Work Program stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of the institution to service, compassion, and social justice.

Amid societal shifts, a growing recognition of the need for professional social work seeds were sown. As far back as 1930-31, the College began recognizing the importance of preparing individuals for careers in “Social Service Work.” Notable figures like Agnes Larson, a St. Olaf alumna from the class of 1916, ventured into the field and paved the way for future generations.

By the mid-1960s, the groundwork for a more formalized approach to social work education was laid. Courses such as “Introduction to Social Work” began to appear in the curriculum, offering students a glimpse into the multifaceted world of professional social work.

In 1977 St. Olaf’s baccalaureate social work program took root, housed initially within the Sociology Department and in collaboration with Augsburg College’s social work program. With a vision for expansion and greater autonomy, the program grew over the years, spurred on by the tireless dedication of faculty members, especially first hires Sandy Stumme and Naurine Lennox.

The transition to a separate Social Work Department in 1989 marked a pivotal moment in the program’s evolution. With accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education attained in 1990, the Program solidified its status as a cornerstone of social work education, with dedicated faculty like Mary Carlsen, ’79, one of the first students to graduate with a baccalaureate degree in social work from St. Olaf.

The development of social work continued. Fueled by a commitment to global engagement and outreach, the Department sought to broaden its offerings to students and contributions to the College. Initiatives to strengthen international ties, including programs in Mexico and later South Africa, underscored the Department’s dedication to addressing social issues on a global scale.

As the years passed, the Social Work Department at St. Olaf College continued to thrive, producing graduates armed with both knowledge and a profound sense of purpose. Alumni dispersed far and wide, making their mark in hospitals, schools, prisons, non-profit organizations, and myriad other settings, embodying the ethos of service and advocacy instilled by their alma mater. Many completed graduate education in social work, public policy, ministry, marriage and family therapy and other fields.

In 1999, the Social Work Program joined with Family Studies to form the Department of Social Work and Family Studies. Today, its legacy at St. Olaf College endures – a testament the power of education, empathy, and action in creating a more just and compassionate world.