ICANDCSW Advances Global Social Work Edu

ICANDCSW Advances Global Social Work Education Through St. Croix Experience

ICAND Caribbean Social Work (ICANDCSW), in partnership with the Clark Atlanta University School of Social Work, successfully delivered its second St. Croix Study Abroad Program during Spring Break 2026, continuing to build on the success of its inaugural 2025 experience.

The program brought together a select group of students for an immersive, culturally grounded learning experience in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. Designed to bridge classroom knowledge with real-world application, the initiative focused on community mental health, child welfare, literacy, and culturally responsive social work practice within a Caribbean context.

Throughout the program, students engaged directly with local communities, professionals, and institutions, gaining meaningful exposure to Caribbean-centred approaches to human services. Key engagements included visits to the Office of the Commissioner of Human Services, the Child Welfare Office, and the Social Work Licensing Board, as well as professional development sessions with the University of the Virgin Islands.

These interactions provided students with valuable insights into how social work is practiced within different cultural and systemic frameworks, strengthening their ability to think critically and act with cultural humility.

A defining element of the experience was its strong emphasis on cultural immersion and reflective practice. Students connected with over 50 local community members, building authentic relationships and engaging in meaningful dialogue that extended beyond traditional classroom learning.

Participants described the experience as both transformative and empowering. One student shared, “This was a great experience… I would never have had the courage to do it alone,” while another reflected on overcoming uncertainty and finding a deep sense of belonging within the group.

The program also created space for leadership development, collaboration, and personal growth, as students took on active roles in community engagement activities and daily program execution. These experiences reinforced key social work values, including empathy, adaptability, and service.

Beyond student development, the program strengthened partnerships with local stakeholders and institutions. Engagements sparked ongoing interest in academic collaboration, with several individuals exploring further educational opportunities and future participation in Clark Atlanta University programs.

Faculty, staff, and community partners praised the program for its intentional design, cultural sensitivity, and meaningful impact. The experience was widely recognized as one that fosters not only academic growth, but also personal transformation and global awareness.

As ICAND Caribbean Social Work continues to expand its international programming, the St. Croix experience remains a cornerstone of its mission, preparing students to become globally conscious, culturally responsive practitioners.

With upcoming programs in Malaysia, Ghana and Tanzania, ICANDCSW is committed to creating opportunities that connect learning with lived experience, while building bridges across communities worldwide.