Missouri State University Social Work Programs

Congratulations to Samantha Kuykendall on her selection as a BSW Student Representative for the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Missouri Chapter Board! Samantha will serve a one-year term beginning July 1, 2026.

To be eligible for this position, students must be enrolled in a BSW program during the 2026–2027 academic year. Samantha was recently admitted to Missouri State University's online BSW Program and will begin coursework this August.

A resident of Kansas City, Missouri, Samantha brings extensive experience supporting youth and families through her work in public school counseling offices and as a high school cheerleading coach. She transferred to Missouri State from Metropolitan Community College, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree and was selected as the student speaker for the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony.

Samantha shared that her current work has allowed her to collaborate with counselors and social workers, connect students and families with resources, and witness the diverse needs within her community, experiences that inspired her to pursue social work. She is particularly interested in working with individuals and families affected by addiction and hopes to eventually contribute to advocacy and policy initiatives.

Regarding her selection, Samantha said, “It feels like a big privilege to be able to learn from others with experience in the field and learn about how social policies are formed. I am so excited to have this opportunity.”

She also hopes to represent Missouri State social work students “with integrity, a desire to learn, and hard work.”

We are incredibly proud of Samantha and look forward to seeing the contributions she will make to the social work profession through this leadership role. Please join us in congratulating her on this outstanding achievement!