New-Collaboration-to-Grow-Social-Work-Workforce-in-Winnebago-County.php

New Collaboration to Grow Social Work Workforce in Winnebago County

• Academics
• 05/30/2025

A groundbreaking collaboration is reshaping the future of social work education and mental health services in Winnebago County. The newly launched Social Work Opportunity Tracks (SWOT) program, funded by a $2 million grant from the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board, brings together local and state educational institutions to create seamless, supportive pathways for aspiring social workers.

Led by the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, SWOT partners include Rock Valley College, Rockford University, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) School of Social Work, Rockford Public Schools District 205, and the Boone-Winnebago Regional Office of Education #4.

“Student success is at the heart of everything we do,” said Dr. Amanda Smith, Chief Academic Officer at Rock Valley College. “This partnership gives our students even more pathways to success, not only helping them join the workforce but also giving them clear opportunities to transfer and further their education.”

SWOT addresses the critical shortage of social workers in the region, where over 150 positions are currently unfilled. The initiative offers tuition assistance, wraparound services, and flexible learning options to Winnebago County residents across all life stages, from high school students to working adults.

Rock Valley College has reinvigorated its Human Services program, establishing new articulation agreements with UIUC and Rockford University. RVC graduates can now pursue their bachelor’s degrees in social work (BSW) in person at Rockford University or online through UIUC. From there, students may also advance to the UIUC online Master of Social Work (MSW) program.

The initiative’s flexibility is key. “We’re meeting students where they are,” said Janet Lichty, Associate Dean at the UIUC School of Social Work. “Whether they’re working full-time, changing careers, or just starting out, our online programs allow them to stay rooted in their communities while advancing their education.”

Rockford University’s Provost, Dr. Elizabeth Davies, emphasized the life-changing potential of the program. “This makes available two years of free tuition for Winnebago County residents pursuing a BSW, including textbooks and other support,” she said. “And it’s not just for traditional students - it’s for adult learners, career-changers, and anyone passionate about helping others.”

The collaboration also builds on Rockford Public Schools’ “Grow Your Own” efforts, aiming to inspire students early. “Our College and Career Academies are launching a mental health and wellness pathway this fall,” said RPS 205 Chief of Student Services Jennifer Lawrence. “SWOT broadens that vision and inspires our youngest learners to see social work as a meaningful and viable career.”

The program is rooted in community commitment, explained Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green, Dean of the UIC College of Medicine Rockford. “We believe that when you grow your own and train people from the community for the community, they stay. And they make a difference.”

About Human Services at RVC

The Human Services Program provides students with learning and training experiences to become compassionate, skilled, and culturally competent professionals and paraprofessionals committed to helping people meet their basic, social, and psychological needs. Human services workers recognize people’s strengths and abilities, value the capacity for human growth and change, utilize interdisciplinary approaches to meeting human needs, and advocate for social justice. For more information, visit the Human Services program page..