Winter 2026 | Jan 27, 2026
Embedded Files
“The time is always right to do what is right.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
We recognize that the current political climate and ongoing news coverage, including ICE activity, is impacting many of you—many of us, all of us. All of us are affected in different ways. Please be kind to yourselves and to one another.
Please remember to communicate with your instructors and with your program if current events are affecting your well-being or your ability to engage in coursework. We care about our students and are committed to supporting them in any way possible.
-Ms Shawe, SSW Undergraduate Admin
M.A. in Communication
Winter term is here, and we hope you’re settling in well. Please remember to take care of yourself and make use of the resources available. It’s flu season, so if you’re not feeling well, be sure to communicate with your instructors.
Stay connected—keep your peers informed when needed and reach out for support from your cohort or from us, your program team. We’re here for you and wishing you a healthy, successful term!
Quick Reminders:
Checked in with your Advisor? Society & Identity Pathway Advising
The Portland Resources here
Important Dates: Academic Calendar
School wide SSW Newsletter
Sign up to Student Legal Services newsletter
EVENTS: PDX Event Calendar
Community Events:
Jan 31 | Oregon Lunar New Year Celebration | Portland, OR
Feb 1 | Lunar New Year Celebration | Vancouver, WA
PSU Budgeting Workshop – Feb 10 & 11
This beginner-friendly workshop will cover practical budgeting tools and strategies.
Workshop Details:
Dates: February 10 (In person) & 11 (Virtual)
Time: 12:40pm-1:30pm
Location: In person on 2/10 in Fariborz Maseeh Hall, Room 101; Virtual on 2/11 Zoom (Register to get link)
Register here: https://forms.gle/8k52MiBkLZzCo1Vv6
Volunteer Opportunity:
Houselessness not only affects low-income and marginalized members of society; it also impacts all individuals within a community and requires a community-wide response. To address these challenges, Just Compassion seeks to identify avenues to effectively share information, and develop opportunities for discussion and action for all.
One of the most recent programs we are opening is a 50 room family shelter in Gresham, OR. This space will be a safe landing place for families in need of shelter, food, and resources to get them back on their feet. We are reaching out to the School of Social Work community in the hopes we can connect with a few folks who would like to volunteer with the shelter. This can look a number of ways from spending time locating resources that shelter participants would benefit from, to mentoring youth in shelter, or joining a morning play group.
Just Compassion visit our website at https://www.justcompassionewc.com/https://www.justcompassionewc.com/. If you have questions or are interested in volunteering please reach out to Kristina Ries via email (kristina@justcompassionewc.com) or phone (971-416-7312).
The Equity, Partnership, and Inclusion Committee (EPIC) is looking for BSW, CYFS, and FSHS students to join! EPIC is focused on advancing our School's commitment to racial justice. EPIC meet (virtually) on the first Tuesday of every month from 11 to 12. Please email Miranda Mosier-Puentes (miran2@pdx.edu) or (jesrodr@pdx.edu) if you're interested.
CSWE Advocacy Update: (article link here): following the federal government reopening, key student aid and education programs have resumed. CSWE continues to advocate for access to affordable social work education, focusing on federal loan policies, public service loan forgiveness, and workforce funding.
NASW ARTICLE: What DOE’s Proposed Change Means for Social Work Degrees
The U.S. Department of Education has proposed removing MSW and DSW degrees from the "Professional Degree" category under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). We want to clarify what this means for our profession.
What does this mean for you?
Why does this matter?
Sign the petition - Action Center - and ensure that the Department of Education hears from you! Also, we will notify all Florida social workers when the Department of Education opens public comments.
#SocialWorkIsProfessional #ProtectSocialWorkDegrees
Planning to graduate in June 2026?
Planning to graduate in June 2026?
To participate in commencement ceremonies, you must apply for a degree or certificate online and indicate your interest in participation in commencement on the Graduation Application.
Undergraduate students must apply for a degree or certificate online by Sunday, March 8, 2026. Visit the Applying for a Degree webpage to learn more.
Save the date: Saturday, June 13, 5pm-6:30pm, Viking Pavilion at the Peter W. Stott Center, 930 SW Hall St, Portland, OR 97201.
Tickets will be made available beginning in May. Ceremonies will also be available to watch via live stream broadcast. A recording of each ceremony will be available online after the live ceremonies.
School of Social Work is offering a limited number of caps and gowns for students experiencing financial challenges. Availability is first come, first served. Form here.
The Reuse Room is back open Mondays through Thursdays for the Winter Term. Make sure to share this email with your teams to let them know where they can donate office, kitchen, home supplies and more! As a reminder, everything in the Reuse Room is free for our PSU community- and helps keep our campus circular.
Culturally Responsive Child Welfare Education Program Application Due Date February 15, 2026 (Applications will be online mid-October.)
Interested in Promoting Child Safety with an Equity and Culturally Relevant Lens?
Do you have a passion for working with children and families? Are you looking for hands-on experience while receiving up to $6,000 in tuition remission as you complete your degree? If so, consider applying for the Culturally Responsive Child Welfare Education Program! BSW students apply during their junior year and participate in the program during their senior year. Students in the program are welcome to join our monthly Culturally Responsive Leaders Seminar.
Questions? We invite you to attend one of our upcoming Information and Q & A Sessions (please rsvp) to learn more about the program.
Contacts: Laurie Leasure, lleasure@pdx.edu and Radhika Niles, rniles@pdx.edu
The Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Complete your form annually to be eligible for all financial aid opportunities, including federal or state grants, loans, and Work Study.
Navigating the FAFSA application process can be challenging, please know that the PSU Financial Aid Office is standing by to offer any support you may need:
Students can book a one-on-one appointment with Financial Aid to complete the FAFSA. (in-person or virtual)
We are offering Saturday drop-in sessions on April 6th and 13th from 10am to 1pm. Families are welcome to come. (in-person; basement of FMH building)
Financial Wellness Center: New Updates & Student Opportunities
Scholarship Workshops
Our Scholarship workshops are now in full swing! These sessions cover scholarship fundamentals and introduce students to Scholarship Universe, the University’s platform that matches students with funding opportunities aligned with their background and goals. Students will learn how to set up their profiles, improve their chances, and stay organized throughout the application process.
Workshop Dates:
February 3 & 19 at 12:40 p.m.
2026 Unitus Scholarships are Now Open
Applications will be accepted January 1, 2026 – March 31, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. PST. Click on the link for more information
SSW Health Resources
Health Resources for Students:
PSU CARES connects students with resources when they are experiencing distress or other concerns. Send a referral at this link, email askdos@pdx.edu, or call 503-725-4422
Center for Student Health & Counseling (SHAC): Counseling Services Staff are available to assist any student in need of support or faculty/staff needing support in working with a student. During SHAC hours of operation call 503-725-2800, walk in to SHAC at the corner of SW 6th & Hall or schedule online
Visit SHAC's Emergency & Crisis Resources for a comprehensive list of culturally specific crisis service options.
PSU Resources:
Available anytime
Walk-in hours M-F 10am to 5pm
Peer Recovery Support Specialist at SHAC, SMART Recovery meeting every Tuesday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Shac Suite 340E or virtually on Wednesdays during the same time at https://pdx.zoom.us/j/89898328009.
Connect & Chat: Reproductive Health Group, Wednesdays 5:30-6:30pm, UCB student well-being lounge
Worksystems launched a job placement program called "Here for Portland" with the goal is to quickly match students in need of part-time employment. WorkSystems have some time-limited job opportunities and grant-funded opportunities to work at various behavioral health agencies in Portland. If you are interested in either one of these possibilities, you can learn more about the requirements, positions, and application here: https://hereforportland.com/psu-behavioral-health-student-recruitment
Northwest Oregon Works, through their Oregon Behavioral Health Grant Program, has funding for Work-based Learning towards careers in Behavioral Health. They have up to $20,000 per person, for those enrolled in a bachelors or masters program which can eventually lead to clinical licensure. Funding can support candidates who are living, interning and/or working in the following Oregon counties: Benton, Linn, Lincoln, Tillamook, Clatsop, or Columbia. To learn more, please contact Adrienne Peters, Project Manager at adrienne@nworegonworks.org
OTHER PSU RESOURCES:
OTHER PSU RESOURCES:
Get FREE pantry staples, diapers, and activity kits delivered to you at home! The RCSC is partnering with PSU Eats to provide this free resource to students with children and their families. Spots are limited so sign up now!
SSW Student Emergency Fund
The SSW provides assistance through the SSW Student Emergency Fund, where students may access a $150 gift via direct deposit or check by filling out a google request form. The SSW Student Emergency Fund is open to all students enrolled in the SSW who are experiencing financial hardship.SSW Veterans Emergency Fund
The SSW provides assistance through the SSW Veterans Emergency Fund, where students may access a $500 gift via direct deposit or check by filling out a google request form. The SSW Veterans Emergency Fund is open to all students enrolled in the SSW who are veterans and are experiencing financial hardship.SHAC: there are a variety of events and activities, including a daily Health Promotion Open House
-SHAC highlights include: Free Food Market, Free Dental Screening, Acupuncture, WHAT Hut, Mental Health Recess & Play
Employment/Volunteer Opportunities
Employment/Volunteer Opportunities
We post these opportunities on the SSW Employment and Volunteer pageas we hear of them.
PSU Career Center has drop-in hours Monday-Fridays 1-2pm, in FMH 342 or via zoom.
This winter, students have the opportunity to live on campus. To qualify, you must be enrolled in a least 8 undergraduate or 4 graduate courses.
Give a SHOUT OUT!
Let’s share our words of appreciation and gratitude for each other. A SHOUT OUT is intended to identify and recognize individuals.
School-Wide Communication
What is our plan?
We want to ensure that this is an open discussion where everyone feels heard. Student safety is our top priority. Please make sure to communicate any safety concerns with an instructor or administrator so we can keep the conversation open and address any issues together. Let's keep the conversation open. What does this mean? For example, letting us know why you can't attend class; family hardships, taking on extra responsibilities, mental health days, class attendance, virtual lessons, etc.
SSW Resource page
Immigration- Related Resources
When ICE is watching
QRC Resources
Update on Federal Troops and PSU’s Dedication to a Safe Campus
It’s a confusing and uncertain time in the world right now, and we want to remind you that Portland State University is a Sanctuary Campus. PSU is committed to protecting and supporting our community. Please stay in communication with your instructors and with your program (BSW, CYFS, HS). We encourage open conversation—ask questions, reach out, and let us know how we can assist you or connect you with resources. –Ms. Shawe, SSW Program Admin
Here is how PSU is preparing & communicating: "PSU remains a sanctuary campus, in a sanctuary city in a sanctuary state — our Campus Public Safety Officers will not collaborate with ICE officers. To learn more about what it means that PSU is a Sanctuary Campus, visit this information page. Please know there are resources available for students and employees who need help." – Ann Cudd, PSU President
Student resources and/or policies to keep in mind:
Inclusive Guide: Meetings, Events, and Conferences: PSU Inclusive Events Guide Meetings Events and Conferences (pdx.edu)
Scheduling Campus Events: Welcome to the Portland State University Campus Events & Student Union Facility Use Request Form (FY24) (google.com)
Free Speech & Protest Information: Student Life Resources - Free Speech & Protest Information (google.com)
Chalking and Posting Policy: https://www.pdx.edu/facilities/resources
Signage Policy: https://www.pdx.edu/construction/sites/campusplanning.web.wdt.pdx.edu/files/2020-08/Signage-and-Wayfinding-standards_9-20-19.pdf
Student Conduct: https://www.pdx.edu/dean-student-life/student-conduct
Bias Review Team: https://www.pdx.edu/diversity/bias-review-team (bias reporting; discrimination report)
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