Amy Shelton Named Social Work Student of the Year by NASW

Hardin-Simmons takes pride in its social work program, and the university is proud to present Mrs. Amy Shelton as one of its talented students. Amy is studying for her social work administration degree and will graduate in May. 

The National Association of Social Workers-West Central Texas Branch awarded Amy with their Social Work Student of the Year Award. The award honors a student member of NASW who has enrolled at least half-time (as defined by their school) in a graduate or undergraduate social work program and has made an outstanding contribution to the goals and mission of the profession. The Social Work Student of the Year demonstrates leadership, a commitment to social justice, the profession of social work, and clients, and the integration of social work knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values.

Amy was surprised by the recognition. With a servant’s heart and humble character, Amy doesn’t boast about her impact. “All I do is go to school, go to work, and go to my internship,” she explained. “I don’t see what I do as anything great. I do what needs to be done.” The community, however, recognizes Amy’s impact and sees her. 

Amy has worked in various roles before being called to HSU. Her most recent role was with Serenity House, a facility to help those with substance abuse, for 12 years. While working at Serenity House, she heard a voice tell her to pursue social work. “God calls us all to be social workers,” she elaborated in an interview, “and the Good Lord Himself called me here.” Mrs. Shelton works with Abilene ISD as a social worker, teaching in Madison Middle School’s PALS classroom and working with special needs students in Craig Middle School.  

Alongside her work as a social worker, Amy embraces her role as both a mother and grandmother while studying as a nontraditional student. She also heads the local chapter of Phi Alpha Sigma Beta, the national honor society for social work, and is the vice president of HSU’s Social Work Club.