CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
7TH ANNUAL SOUTHEASTERN SOCIAL WORK CONFERENCE
Date: March 26-27, 2026 @ the University of North Carolina at Pembroke Campus
THEME
VOICES FROM THE FIELD: RURAL SOCIAL WORKERS RESPONDING TO STRUCTURAL CHANGES
SUB-THEMES/CONTENT AREAS
- Advocacy In Action: Mobilizing For Rural Policy Change
- Environmental Justice And Health Impacts In Rural Towns
- The Opioid Crisis: Advocating For Effective Change
- Youth And Aging In Rural America: Tailored Approaches Across The Lifespan
- Innovations In Social Work Education For Rural Practice
- Lived Experience Panels: What Rural Residents Want Social Workers To Know
- Upholding Social Work Values And Ethics In Evolving Rural Contexts
- Rural Communities, Global Connections: A Comparative Look At Social Work Responses Across Borders
Abstract Requirements & Selection Criteria
Abstract Requirements:
- Learning Outcomes: State three measurable learning outcomes for conference attendees.
- Abstract Narrative of Presentation Tracks: (Abstract should not exceed 500 words).
- Academic & Research-Based Presentation Track: For scholars, graduate students, and researchers presenting original studies or theoretical work. Abstracts submitted under this track should include: a research question(s), methodology, and findings relevant to rural social work practice, policy, or education.
- Practice-Based Presentation Track: For practitioners, supervisors, and community leaders sharing real-world approaches and innovations from direct service, program implementation, or agency work. Abstracts submitted under this track should highlight practice setting, client engagement and implementation, client outcomes, and lessons learned.
- References: Provide a minimum of three appropriate references (APA style).
Selection Criteria:
- Relevance: The abstract highlights specific challenges in rural communities and illustrates how social work practice interventions fosters communities’ capacity for self-advocacy and meaningful change.
- Evidence and Practice Application: The abstract presents relevant evidence supporting the implementation of similar interventions in rural communities and offers guidance on how they can be effectively adopted.
- Originality: The abstract presents innovative ideas/strategies that inspire critical reflection on social work interventions in rural communities.
- Coherence: The abstract is clear, well-organized, and maintains a consistent focus throughout.
Important Dates
SUBMISSION AND DEADLINE: October 15, 2025 (Click to submit abstract: [opens to a new window]: Abstract submission portal closes at 11:59 pm ET).
NOTIFICATION SENT By November 15, 2025 (Notification emails will be sent to the primary presenter).
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION & HOUSING By December 1, 2025 (Registration and housing opens; registration fee discounts will be available for selected presenters)
CONFERENCE DATE: March 26-27, 2026, At Pembroke (UNC Pembroke campus)