NW Valley Times

Social work students from Grand Canyon University recently visited the Arizona Capitol as part of Legislative, Education and Advocacy Day. The event was organized by the National Association of Social Workers’ Arizona chapter. During the visit, students engaged with legislators and learned about the legislative process.

Rep. Quantá M. Crews, who represents West Phoenix and Glendale in the Arizona House, addressed the students. She is an alumna of GCU and expressed her excitement at seeing fellow Lopes pursuing social work. "I was saved at GCU – and now am an ordained minister – at the Gathering," she shared with the group.

Makisha Gunty, sociology chair and social work instructor, emphasized that the day helped students understand public policy's impact on clients' lives. "We’re seeing state legislatures looking at all kinds of things like DEI, immigration policy, Medicaid and Medicare funding in budget issues," she noted.

Dr. Abigail Rebeske highlighted that social work involves advocacy on both micro and macro levels. Junior Luke Bear remarked that the experience showed him opportunities for social workers in state government.

Students also learned about how bills are passed and heard from Brandie Reiner of NASW Arizona about legislation concerning licensure policies between states. Natalya Brown, NASW’s lobbyist, explained her role in educating lawmakers about bill impacts.

Carlos Ramos from Gov. Katie Hobbs' office spoke to students about their importance in advocating for clients affected by policies. "Politics and policy is personal," he said, urging them to be engaged despite choosing direct care routes.

The group also heard from Rep. Sarah Liguori and Sen. Brian Fernandez on legislation affecting unhoused populations, which resonated with graduate student Roberta Delgado due to her work in a mental health facility.

"It was a valuable day for me," Delgado said, noting it expanded her view of career possibilities within social work.

Grand Canyon University senior writer Mike Kilen can be reached at [email protected]