In the Spotlight: Professional Education Programs Director Deborah Sheehan (’78)

BU School of Social Work’s Professional Education Programs Director Deborah Sheehan (‘78) came from a long line of social workers—in their own way. Although they didn’t have the credentials or training to prove it, her parents—a Boston police officer and an inner city public school cafeteria manager—by trade, were social workers. They were helpers, Sheehan remembers, often going above and beyond to make sure their neighborhood, Roslindale, and all those within it, were “fed, sheltered, and protected.” Occasionally that meant taking matters into their own hands, such as creating a safe “anti-bullying space” in the lunch room or starting a free lunch program for children in need before the importance of either were formally recognized in the public school system.

It’s no surprise then that Sheehan found herself in the field of social work. After graduating from Boston College with her B.A. in psychology, she attended BUSSW and earned MSW in 1978. After some time as a clinical social worker, Sheehan came to the field of higher education, first serving as Director of Admissions at Simmons College and then assisting with Admissions while pursuing her PhD at Boston College. As Cate Solomon, Director of Student Services at BUSSW says, “26-years ago she began her career began as a child care worker but eventually she made her way to her raison d’etre, improving the quality of educational programming for social workers,” and she returned home to BUSSW.

Professional Education Programs, or “PEP,” as it is affectionately known, is a necessary part of the social work field—as the field requires a commitment to lifelong learning. As social work has increased its focus on evidence-based practice, utilizing the resource of the faculty and field workers is crucial. “This is where PEP shines,” Sheehan explains.

Sheehan’s vision for PEP is to bring the “most interesting information to the most people in the most accessible ways possible.” With the addition of online seminars, new offerings and certificate programs, and different ranges of presentations, discussions, and speakers, PEP is being noticed for its growing diversity and innovation under Sheehan’s leadership. She has led “with admirable entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and particularly beautiful to behold and enviable, openness to trying new ideas,” Solomon says. In addition, PEP is great for networking—a big bonus for alumni looking for support and to share resources while earning continuing education credits. “I love it, I love the job,” Sheehan says.

At BUSSW, Sheehan wears many hats. She continues her connection to Admissions through advising for the Online Program. She is often seen as the resident expert or “go to person,” always ready to help. In her role as advisor, Sheehan works with fifteen students and discusses specific career goals and their passion for helping others, which she admits is her favorite part. “I love reading and hearing stories of those who like to help others,” Sheehan said. As a mentor, she says, “being accessible, compassionate, and able to communicate clearly” are most important, especially for students in the Online Program who are not physically on campus.

In addition to her work in Admissions and PEP, Sheehan is an active member of her community. Colleagues and friends know her as one of immeasurable kindness, more than willing to speak out when she perceives injustice or inequity. She serves on the BUSSW Equity and Inclusions Committee and was appointed by the Governor to the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ&Q Youth. Both serve issue areas that she is very passionate about. “I’m pleased with the progress,” she says, expressing that she wanted to be a part of the group that is calling for change and helping to make it happen, but finishing with, “there’s more that can be done.”

Sheehan’s position at BUSSW has evolved greatly over the years with Sheehan’s strength, guidance, and enthusiasm for learning and social change are at the core. From all her contributions, it is clear that this year’s Alumni Association award for Outstanding Contribution to the School of Social Work is well deserved. Her advice for future social workers and those involved in social advocacy: “The most important thing is to figure out ways to take care of yourself while you’re giving care to others and to stay current in the best practices in your field.”