Nazareth Student Monika Rabjohn Named Social Work Student of the Year
Nazareth student Monika Rabjohn is the recipient of the Undergraduate Social Work Student of the Year Award at the 50th Conference of the New York State Social Work Education Association in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. She was nominated by her Nazareth Social Work Professor Leanne Charlesworth and the undergraduate social work faculty. This award recognizes students who demonstrate academic achievement and leadership in the social work community. She is one of two winners of this award. The award was presented in early October.
“Monika is a fantastic student (a double major in social work and religious studies) who lives life guided by her ethical principles and commitment to making a positive difference in the world around her,” said Charlesworth. “Monika embodies both academic excellence and a spirit of service.”
Bridging her two majors, Monika is constantly seeking opportunities to grow as a professional and as a person. She has completed multiple alternative break service immersion trips, including trips to Philadelphia and to El Paso, Texas with the Border Service. She is a leader in the Nazareth community, serving as co-chair of the Faith Formation and Spiritual Development Committee. Monika’s commitment to palliative care and the well-being of our aging population has led her to serve as a volunteer at a local nursing home for the last three years. “Although Monika is able to eloquently articulate the value of these activities for her development as a leader, she is also humble and always eager to listen and learn,” says Charlesworth, “her gentle yet highly competent nature positions her well for her chosen career path: serving the aging community.”
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for nearly 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.
Monika Rabjohn