Shanisa Stinson

Master of Social Work Alumna

When Shanisa Stinson, ’25, first stepped onto Indiana State University’s campus, she was excited to compete on Indiana State’s women’s track and field team. A standout track hurdler from Chicago, Illinois, Stinson had already proven her strength on the oval. But it was her heart for healing and her passion for people that would ultimately define her time at Indiana State – and shape her future far beyond the finish line.

In May 2025, Stinson crossed a different kind of finish line when she earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. Her journey to that moment didn’t begin in a classroom or on a track, though. It began at a career fair.

“I’ve always had a heart for helping people and a desire to make a difference in my community, but it wasn’t until that career fair where I fully realized how social work could be the bridge to do that in such a meaningful way,” she says. At the career fair, Stinson listened to a speaker talk about the impact of social work, and she was immediately interested in the field. She adds, “That moment sparked something in me, and I knew that pursuing an MSW degree would allow me to turn my passion into a purpose-driven career.”

That moment of clarity lit a fire in her. Social work, Stinson discovered, wasn’t just a profession – it was a calling that aligned perfectly with her values: empathy, advocacy, and community. And Indiana State offered the rare opportunity to pursue both her athletic and academic dreams.

“Indiana State felt like home from the start,” she says. “It’s a place where people from different backgrounds can come together and feel like they belong. Whether you’re involved in athletics, academics, or student groups, there’s always a sense of connection and community.”

As a graduate student, Stinson dove headfirst into the rigorous MSW coursework. The work was challenging, she says, but it was also deeply rewarding. She found herself drawn to the hands-on learning that mirrored the complexities of real-world social work practice – especially in rural and underserved communities.

Stinson adds, “The MSW program does a great job of setting you up for success by ensuring we’re not only knowledgeable about social work but also confident in applying what we’ve learned.”

Her professors played a pivotal role in that preparation. With small class sizes and personalized mentorship, Stinson’s professors helped broaden her perspectives, think critically about the coursework, apply theories into relevant conversations, and build the empathy skills needed to be a compassionate social worker.

“My professors were invested in my success. They were always willing to meet with me to talk through my assignments, give feedback, or just provide encouragement. I felt valued when I was with them,” Stinson expresses.

Outside of the classroom, Stinson put her education into practice during an internship at Sarah Scott Middle School in Terre Haute. There, she worked one-on-one with students, provided therapeutic interventions, facilitated group therapy sessions, and supported school-wide initiatives. The experience was nothing short of transformative, she says.

“I really enjoyed being a support system for students. It’s incredibly rewarding to help them process their trauma, work through personal struggles, and build the tools they need to thrive in school and in life,” Stinson says. “Being able to walk alongside these students during difficult moments and help them see their own strengths has been one of the most meaningful parts.”

Now, with her degree in hand, Stinson is setting her sights on becoming a full-time school social worker. But her vision doesn’t stop there. Further down the road, she dreams of opening a private practice and launching a nonprofit center for children – a safe haven where therapy, creativity, and joy coexist.

“I want to create a safe space where kids can come not only for therapy and resources but also to play, be creative, and just be kids,” Stinson says. It’s a vision rooted in empathy and driven by a deep desire to uplift others. She adds, “I’m most passionate about being a source of support for others, especially those who feel unseen or unheard. I want to help people find hope in hard situations, work toward healing, and realize they’re not alone.”

Reflecting on her time at Indiana State, Stinson credits the University with giving her the tools—and the confidence—to turn her dreams into reality. “Indiana State truly sets you up for success. The professors are passionate and supportive. You’ll be challenged, encouraged, and equipped with the tools to make a difference in someone’s life,” she says.

She adds, “If anyone is looking for a place where they can grow academically, professionally, and personally, Indiana State is it.”

From clearing hurdles on the track to helping students overcome life’s toughest challenges, Stinson is just getting started. And one thing is clear: She’s ready to go ALL IN to make a difference.