Oakland University is expanding opportunities for students committed to supporting children and families through its participation in the Michigan Title IV-E Child Welfare Fellowship - a statewide initiative designed to recruit, educate and retain future leaders in child welfare.

The fellowship provides additional resources and support to students pursuing careers in Michigan's child welfare system, including Children's Protective Services, foster care, licensing and adoption. The program combines specialized coursework with practicum education and requires fellows to seek employment in public, private or tribal child welfare agencies in Michigan after graduation.

Oakland University recently joined the initiative through a partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), which expanded the program to include three additional universities and bring the statewide total to eight participating institutions. The program provides stipends to social work students who commit to working in under-resourced communities across the state.

For the current year, Oakland University is set to receive approximately $273,000, with most funds directed toward student stipends as well as grant management and the development of child welfare training and curriculum. The program has already supported six OU students - four Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students and two Master of Social Work (MSW) students - with plans to expand participation in the 2026-2027 academic year.

"This program reflects our deep commitment to preparing highly skilled, compassionate professionals who are ready to serve Michigan's children and families," said Dr. Maria Beam, director of Social Work and coordinator of Title IV-E at Oakland University. "Through initiatives like this, Oakland University continues to create pathways for students to pursue purposeful careers while meeting critical workforce needs."

Administered by the University of Michigan, the federally funded Title IV-E Child Welfare Stipend Program offers financial assistance in exchange for a post-graduation commitment to work in child welfare in Michigan.

At Oakland University, the fellowship is available to both BSW and MSW students and supports the university's mission to prepare graduates for meaningful, community-focused careers. Eligible students may receive $5,000 per semester at the BSW level and $8,000 per semester at the MSW level while completing required coursework and field placements.

Beyond financial support, the program emphasizes hands-on preparation through placements in child welfare agencies, helping students build the knowledge, skills and professional networks needed to make an immediate impact after graduation.

For Oakland University social work student Sierra Plonkey, the Title IV-E Child Welfare Fellowship has played a pivotal role in shaping both her academic journey and professional goals.

"When beginning my adventure into social work, I knew that I wanted to pursue something with children. That is ultimately why I decided on Oakland University - because they offered a minor in child welfare," Plonkey said. "Not even knowing that the Title IV-E fellowship was something that was offered, I was so excited when I was accepted. This fellowship has supported me throughout my educational journey and helped expand my passions."

Through her coursework and a field internship with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Plonkey says she has gained invaluable, real-world experience working with children and families.

"Working with children and families has been such an eye-opening and rewarding experience," she said. "Paired with my internship with DHHS, I feel like I have broadened not only my professional experience, but also my worldview. I have learned from supervisors, specialists and mentors who have been patient, understanding and willing to go above and beyond to answer my many questions. Overall, my experience has been spectacular to say the least."

As Michigan continues to address a shortage of child welfare professionals, programs like Title IV-E play an important role in developing a strong, prepared workforce dedicated to protecting children and strengthening families.

Students interested in applying should note that fellowship applications are due April 15, 2026.

To learn more about the Michigan Title IV-E Child Welfare Fellowship at Oakland University, please visit https://michildwelfare.org/oakland-university.