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Samantha Hawkins
Social Work
Summa Cum Laude, Social Work Writing Award

As we graduate, I see more than degrees. I see resilience, sacrifice, and perseverance. Many of us balanced roles as students, parents, workers, and caregivers, often all at once. We pushed through exhaustion, doubt, and life’s demands, and still made it here. For me, this journey has been grounded in faith, strengthened by my children, and shaped by every challenge that confirmed my calling to social work and service. As we move forward, I hope we carry forward the strength it took to get here and never forget who we had to become along the way. Congratulations, Class of 2026 - We did it!

Favorite Time at SCSU

My favorite part of my time at SCSU was being part of the Social Work program, where I not only grew professionally but also met lifelong friends who made this journey unforgettable.

What are you going to miss the most, and what are you looking forward to the most?

I am going to miss some of the professors that I connected with that will not be teaching in the MSW program. My relationships with my professors were an important part of my academic journey at SCSU.

Advice to Incoming Students

My advice to incoming students is to give yourself grace and take things one step at a time. Stay open to learning, lean into your support system, and don’t be afraid to grow through the challenges because they will shape you just as much as the successes.

Samantha Hawkins
Samantha Hawkins