Ph.D. (Cand.), Michigan State University
M.S.W., Grand Valley State University
B.S.W., Grand Valley State University

Social work, child welfare, clinical practice, trauma. 
View Carew's Curriculum Vitae.

What can students expect from your classes? From your division?

Social work is a hands-on profession! Thus, students in my courses should expect to roll their sleeves up and get ready to engage, interact and practice the skills required for working in this field. Stretching yourself, opening up your creative capacities and jumping into the material that we are studying are essential to being successful in my courses. Students are often connected to community organizations as a part of their coursework and get hands-on experiences in the field throughout their studies in preparation for their intensive field practicum experience.

Of all the classes that you may teach, which one are you most passionate about?

I’m most passionate about my child welfare course. I’ve worked in child welfare for over 20 years, and so I am very committed to this field. I feel that it is very important to educate students about the issues and the needs of children in our society both presently and historically. I’m absolutely overjoyed when students grasp the tremendous need that exists today in child welfare and become passionate about wanting to make a difference in the world by helping and supporting children and families in various capacities. 

It is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding profession. I can’t imagine being in any other career, and I don’t think I’ll ever forget the individuals that I’ve been privileged to come alongside of to help and support. 

Where were you born or raised?

Fremont, Mich.

Family information:

Married 23 years to my husband, Mike. We have five amazing kids that fill my life with joy: Cody, 19; Kaylee, 16; Kirsten, 13; Colton, 13; and Casey, 9. We have a horse, a goat, rabbits, a stray cat, a beagle and a Shih Tzu-mini poodle mix named Zoie. A full house? 

I love to garden — vegetables and flowers. God has taught me many lessons in the garden!
I enjoy watching my kids in their sporting events and being their chauffer. Going to the beach, camping and boating in the summer! 

Many years ago in my undergraduate studies, I met an amazing woman named Dr. Doris Rucks. She was passionate about helping others and teaching students about how really to understand and help people by meeting them where they are at. She has been my inspiration. I also have admired Frances Perkins, the first woman appointed to a president’s cabinet and a social worker. She was influential and creative. She was instrumental in implementing social security and unemployment insurance as well as many other well-established social programs that today help those in need.  

Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” 

Being surrounded by fellow believers, the sense of community and the students! 

616.949.5300 ext. 1948

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