Meet Shannon Shannon

FSU MSW Student (Graduating August 2022)

Social Leadership Concentration

Shannon Shannon grew up in Brevard County, Florida, and is about to graduate with her Master of Social Work, Social Leadership Concentration, from Florida State University.

Shannon initially enrolled in Florida State University as an undergraduate student, having first earned her A.A. from Eastern Florida State College. Her intent was to study political science and, eventually, law. While taking a social work class, she realized that social workers who have a policy focus do much the same work as lawyers, although with a more "boots on the ground" approach. Shannon decided the social work path was more aligned with her goals and priorities. So she enrolled in the College of Social Work, where she found her passion for legislative advocacy and leadership.

In addition to pursuing the Social Leadership Concentration, Shannon is earning the LEAD Certificate. The LEAD (Leadership in Executive and Administrative Development) Certificate "educates people about leadership theories and practices and provides students with leadership experience." Shannon appreciates the fact that earning her MSW has honed the social work education she received when she earned her BSW, allowing her to delve deeply into her areas of interest. Her MSW classes have included courses in budgeting, financial analysis for social services, grant writing, legal advocacy, and policy analysis - all viewed through the lens of social work.

As a first-generation student, Shannon realizes the importance of supportive structures as adolescents move into higher education and adulthood. Her greatest goal as a social worker is ensuring that "everyone has the opportunity to access the resources that they want to, and that they know about them."

Shannon's goal is to "lift up those who are underprivileged and underserved, so that they can achieve the same things that the rest of us have the opportunity to achieve."

To learn more about Social Work as a profession, or the Florida State University College of Social Work, contact us at csw.fsu.edu, or  email brevardnet@csw.fsu.edu.

To learn more about the LEAD Certificate, click here.