Southeastern Social Work Conference

VOICES FROM THE FIELD: RURAL SOCIAL WORKERS RESPONDING TO STRUCTURAL CHANGES

SUB-THEMES/CONTENT AREAS

1. Advocacy In Action: Mobilizing For Rural Policy Change
2. Environmental Justice And Health Impacts In Rural Towns 
3. The Opioid Crisis: Advocating For Effective Change
4. Youth And Aging In Rural America: Tailored Approaches Across The Lifespan
5. Innovations In Social Work Education For Rural Practice
6. Lived Experience Panels: What Rural Residents Want Social Workers To Know
7. Upholding Social Work Values And Ethics In Evolving Rural Contexts
8. Rural Communities, Global Connections: A Comparative Look At Social Work Responses Across Borders

Abstract Requirements:

• Learning Outcomes: State three measurable learning outcomes for conference attendees. 
• Abstract Narrative of Presentation Tracks: (Abstract should not exceed 500 words).
  • Academic & Research-Based Presentation Track: For scholars, graduate students, and researchers presenting original studies or theoretical work. Abstracts submitted under this track should include: a research question(s), methodology, and findings relevant to rural social work practice, policy, or education. 
  • Practice-Based Presentation Track: For practitioners, supervisors, and community leaders sharing real-world approaches and innovations from direct service, program implementation, or agency work. Abstracts submitted under this track should highlight practice setting, client engagement and implementation, client outcomes, and lessons learned.
• References: Provide a minimum of three appropriate references (APA style).

Selection Criteria:

• Relevance: The abstract highlights specific challenges in rural communities and illustrates how social work practice interventions fosters communities’ capacity for self-advocacy and meaningful change.
• Evidence and Practice Application: The abstract presents relevant evidence supporting the implementation of similar interventions in rural communities and offers guidance on how they can be effectively adopted.
• Originality: The abstract presents innovative ideas/strategies that inspire critical reflection on social work interventions in rural communities.
• Coherence: The abstract is clear, well-organized, and maintains a consistent focus throughout.

SUBMISSION AND DEADLINE: October 15, 2025

Submit Abstract

Abstract submission portal closes at 11:59 pm ET.

NOTIFICATION SENT By November 15, 2025 (Notification emails will be sent to the primary presenter).

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION & HOUSING By December 1, 2025 (Registration and housing opens; registration fee discounts will be available for selected presenters)

CONFERENCE DATE: March 26-27, 2026, UNC Pembroke campus