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Swedish professors discuss differences in social work education, family policy

The week of Nov. 29, the School welcomed two social work professors visiting from Sweden’s Mälardalen University, Drs. Ana-Lena Almqvist and Martha Kesthely. The School of Social Work recently signed a “memorandum of understanding” to create a graduate student exchange program with the School of Health Care and Social Welfare at Malardalen.

On Dec. 2, Almqvist and Kesthely presented to our faculty and students about social work education in Sweden. They provided a photo tour of Mälardalen, shared their research interests in family and youth treatment, and discussed how families balance childrearing and work in relation to family policy.

“Their talk on social work and social work education in Sweden was fascinating, especially the differences in social welfare policy,” said Anna Scheyett, associate dean for academic affairs. “It’s the beginning of an exciting collaboration.”

Faculty members Mark Testa and Irene Zipper were instrumental in coordinating this visit.