Eric Burden, a Jackson State University master of social work student, has been selected to participate in Project LIFT (Leadership
Initiatives for Tomorrow), a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) initiative.
SAMHSA prepares individuals to be health reform ready and culturally competent to serve vulnerable populations and communities.
Burden says he’s excited about the opportunity.
“When I began searching for an avenue for furthering my education and career, the part-time MSW program offered by JSU was perfect for my
needs. In addition, I felt that JSU would offer me a diversity of experience that would be difficult to find elsewhere,” Burden said.
Burden will travel to Bethesda, Md., to meet the other members of the program. Project members participate in a monthly webinar and work with teammates on a group leadership project.
Burden is enrolled in the part-time MSW program and also works full time for the Mississippi Department of Human Services.
“As my current position and career goals involve training young leaders and developing organizational efficiency, the experience of this program will be incredibly helpful in achieving my objectives,” he said.
He added that he hopes to be able to take the lessons and experiences garnered from Project LIFT and use them in his work with young leaders in foster care.
For more information about the School of Social Work and the College of Public Service, see:
https://www.jsums.edu/socialwork/bachelor-of-social-work-2/.