Social Work Month Spotlight: Uplift. Defend. Transform.
March is Social Work Month, and this year’s theme — Uplift. Defend. Transform. — highlights the powerful role social workers play in strengthening individuals, families, and communities.
Throughout this spotlight series, we are proud to feature faculty, leaders, and initiatives within the UND College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines who embody this mission every day through teaching, research, and community partnership.
Stephanie Homstad, Assistant Professor, Online Education Director & Child Welfare Stipend Coordinator
Stephanie Homstad helps shape the next generation of social workers through teaching, advising, and coordinating MSW programs. In her roles, she supports students as they connect coursework to real-world practice while expanding access to high-quality social work education.
“I was inspired to enter social work because of a deep commitment to social justice and a belief that everyone deserves dignity, opportunity, and support. I’ve always been drawn to helping people navigate challenges while also looking at the bigger picture—questioning systems, addressing inequities, and advocating for meaningful change.”
Stephanie is especially proud to be part of programs that expand access through online learning and create opportunities for students in rural and Tribal communities. Outside the classroom, she finds joy and grounding in time with family, caring for pets, and creating art—bringing balance and creativity to the meaningful work she does each day.
Barbara Kitko, Clinical Assistant Professor & BSSW Program Director
A proud UND alumna, Barbara Kitko has dedicated more than 28 years to serving children and families in schools, hospitals, and community programs—including 18 years as a school social worker and in program leadership. Today, she brings that depth of experience to her role as BSSW Program Director and Clinical Assistant Professor, helping shape the next generation of social workers.
Since joining the faculty in 2015, Barbara has blended practical insight with genuine encouragement in the classroom. She is passionate about preparing students for the realities of practice and finds the greatest joy in watching them grow into confident, compassionate professionals.
Outside the classroom, Barbara enjoys staying active, exploring creative outlets like painting, and cherishing time with her five grandchildren—“arguably her most demanding leadership role yet.”
Dr. Jennifer Schlinger, Director of Field Education & Clinical Assistant Professor
Jennifer serves as the vital bridge between the classroom and hands-on practice. As Director of Field Education, she connects students with dedicated field instructors in their communities, ensuring they gain meaningful, real-world experience while growing into confident, skilled social work professionals.
“Teaching is what I truly loved and wanted to pursue full-time. In addition to teaching, I have the privilege of overseeing our social work field education program where I connect students with dedicated social work field instructors within their communities. I serve as the bridge between the classroom and meaningful, hands-on practice, supporting students as they emerge into social work professionals.”
Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys staying active with her family through her children’s musical and athletic pursuits, traveling, spending time on the Missouri River, and gathering with friends and family around the firepit.
UND green runs deep in the Schlinger household. As a proud alumna—alongside her husband—and with both children soon to be on campus, Jennifer’s connection to UND is both professional and personal. She values the welcoming, supportive environment and the university’s strong reputation for preparing graduates to become successful professionals.
Lea Saga, Clinical Assistant Professor
Lea Saga bridges real-world social work practice with academic knowledge, guiding students as they translate theory into ethical, effective action. In the classroom, she creates space for reflection, critical thinking, and professional growth—helping students prepare for the complex realities of social work practice.
“I was motivated by the opportunity to help students translate theory into effective, ethical practice that responds to complex social realities. Social work education offers a space to continually learn and reflect while contributing to the profession’s evolving knowledge base.”
Outside the classroom, Lea brings curiosity, compassion, and courage to all she does. An animal lover who enjoys thrill-seeking activities like skydiving and cliff jumping, she embraces challenges that recharge and refocus her. She is also deeply connected to her large extended family and has been married for 24 years, with two children.
Dr. Yi-Ping Hsieh, Associate Professor
Yi-Ping Hsieh teaches, mentors, and conducts research focused on child and youth development, family well-being, and online safety. In addition to guiding students to build critical thinking, confidence, and purpose, she leads interdisciplinary, grant-funded projects and serves as Assessment Coordinator and Gerontology Minor Coordinator—strengthening curriculum, collaboration, and community impact.
“I’ve always been driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Social work gives me the opportunity to combine research, teaching, and service to support individuals, families, and communities—especially those who are underserved.”
She encourages students to stay curious, seek mentorship, and step outside their comfort zones as they grow into professionals. Outside the classroom, Yi-Ping enjoys spending time with family, traveling to experience different cultures, staying active, and exploring the outdoors. Her curiosity about technology and well-being continues to inspire her teaching and research.
Dr. Jeffrey Anvari-Clark, Assistant Professor
Dr. Jeffrey Anvari-Clark teaches and researches financial social work at the intersection of people, money, relationships, and social justice. In the classroom, he creates engaging learning experiences that encourage students to think critically, reflect deeply, and grow both personally and professionally.
“I’m a facilitator — I love accompanying students through learning activities and having conversations that help them learn more about themselves and the world around them.”
Jeffrey encourages students to pursue topics they’re passionate about and explore them across courses to build meaningful expertise. Outside the classroom, he enjoys running through the woods and savoring straight espresso—simple rituals that fuel both focus and reflection.
Dr. Isaac Karikari, Associate Professor & MSW Program Director
Isaac sees education as a powerful pathway to community development and social transformation. As MSW Program Director, he views the classroom as a collaborative partnership—one where teaching and learning flow both ways. Through this shared process, he supports students in reaching their professional goals while strengthening the human services workforce.
“It is an opportunity to serve and contribute to community development and social transformation through education. Teaching allows me to support learning, help students move toward realizing their professional and career goals, and help strengthen the human services workforce. I see the classroom as a collaborative partnership, and working with students is enriching because their lived experiences, perspectives, and questions continually challenge me to keep learning and grow alongside them.”
Before finding his path in social work education, Isaac once aspired to be a video game programmer—proof that curiosity, creativity, and innovation have long shaped his journey.
Strengthening Families Through Collaboration: North Dakota ICWA Family Preservation Partnership
Members of the Partnership bring together representatives from Tribal Nations, state agencies, courts, and community partners. United by a shared commitment, they are turning collaboration into meaningful impact across North Dakota.
Housed within the University of North Dakota College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines, the Partnership works to strengthen families, support Tribal sovereignty, and advance culturally grounded child welfare practice. Funded by the Administration for Children and Families, the initiative ensures the accurate and meaningful implementation of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).
Through this work, the North Dakota ICWA Family Preservation Partnership is:
- Expanding the Indian Family Preservation (IFP) program statewide
- Supporting early Tribal engagement and active efforts
- Reducing disproportionality in foster care
- Strengthening collaboration across Tribal and state systems
- Elevating culturally responsive child welfare practice
This collaboration is about more than compliance with the law—it is about honoring the spirit of ICWA and improving outcomes for Native children and families.
