Taheem Thomas Selected As CSWE MFP Scholar
When Taheem was told he had been selected by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) as a Minority Fellowship Program scholar, he was surprised. To be selected among a candidate pool that spanned the nation was a surreal experience that filled him with pride.
The CSWE MFP is a distinguished fellowship program funded by SAMHSA. It is designed to “enhance the training of full-time, masters-level, direct practice-focused social work students in their final year of study.” The fellowship primarily admits students whose studies focus on mental health and/or substance use disorder service to racial/ethnic minority populations, with emphasis on children, adolescents, and/or transition-aged youths.
As a MFP scholar, Taheem Thomas, currently a MSW Candidate and Graduate Assistant at the NC State School of Social Work, hopes to take advantage of this invaluable opportunity. “The connections [provided by the MFP] will allow me to engage directly with individuals who possess a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experiences regarding the challenges and successes of working with this population. Through these interactions, I can gain insights into effective strategies, therapeutic approaches, and community resources that are important for supporting those struggling with mental health issues and substance use disorders.
In addition, the MFP will provide scholars with a variety of workshop opportunities to enhance their understanding of complex issues and interventions.
“The recognition not only filled me with pride but also reinforced my belief that I was on the right path in my career. This award served as a powerful affirmation of my dedication and commitment to my field, motivating me to continue striving for a better future for all who need help,” said Taheem.
