Social Workers Walk with a Purpose

Oct 24, 2025

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Siena's social work program immerses its students in experiences that prepare Saints to help others and advocate for change. It's not just learning, it's doing. Want to see the students in action? Grab your sneakers, and come to campus tomorrow.

Alex Haffey '27 didn't need an emotional connection to fully commit to the class project, but there was one.

"My grandfather passed away from Alzheimer's, so this is an issue that feels personal for me. I think from the lens of social work, the educational value is about understanding how different systems can contribute to make progress."

Alex is one of 20 students this fall in SWRK 315: social work practice with organizations and communities. The course applies the knowledge, values, and ethics cultivated in the major in meaningful collaboration with an organization. It just so happens this organization was already planning to be on campus.

The Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest fundraiser for Alzheimer's care. More than 600 Walks are held annually in communities across the country, and each year, the Capital Region walk is a 1.3 mile stroll through the Siena campus. Tomorrow, students in SWRK 315 will volunteer - greeting participants, setting up signs, and helping with clean-up. But their contribution to the cause actually began at the start of the semester.

The local Walk has a goal of raising $370,000. Qiang Chen, Ph.D., associate professor of social work, challenged his students to contribute to the goal before the event. They brainstormed different ideas and settled on two fundraisers: a raffle (above) and a lemonade stand (below).

"This fundraiser was meaningful because it is something that impacts so many people," said Paige Simpson '26. "Whether it's a family member or a friend, most people know someone who suffers from Alzheimer's. Being part of this fundraiser allows us social work students to get some hands-on experience in creating and running an event. It was a great first experience for those involved to learn more of the behind the scenes actions of social workers!"

For the raffle, the Saints solicited local businesses, plus the Siena bookstore and athletic department, for prizes.

"We appreciate all the support and assistance from our Siena community," said Chen. "This event was an important opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience working with organizations and communities. They were generous with their time and talents, and showed great compassion in serving people beyond our campus."