Politics shape everything we do as social workers and citizens. Political decisions made at the federal, state, and local levels determine what kind of world we live in and touch every aspect of our daily lives, including education, health care, criminal justice, mental health services, environment, trash – everything.

Yet, it can also feel overwhelming and a place for insiders. The Campaign School for Social Workers is an annual two-day workshop for anyone who wants to be more politically knowledgeable and active as a candidate, staff member, volunteer, and/or advocate for social change. Attendees learn from political social workers and national experts why we all belong in politics, how to use the NASW Code of Ethics as a guide, and how supporting a more inclusive democracy is central to social work's mission, impact, and a more just society.

Now in its 28th year, the Campaign School for Social Workers has a strong network of over 2,600 alumni from across the country and world, many of whom have gone to serve as elected officials, leaders, advocates, and organizers.

The Campaign School is held annually at the UConn School of Social Work in Hartford, Connecticut. Schools and NASW Chapters across the country have also brought the Campaign to their communities.

Travel information

The Campaign School for Social Workers is held in Hartford, CT, which is just 15 minutes away from Bradley International Airport and a 10-minute walk from Amtrak. We have a group rate for a hotel within walking distance of the venue. For links and information, go to our travel page.

"UConn was my top school because of the Nancy A. Humphries Institute for Political Social Work. I was an MSW student at the University of New England. By chance I learned about their Campaign School through an independent study I was doing. I attended as part of my independent study and it was completely life-changing. That was the first time I was taught about the importance of social workers and their clients being involved in political decisions. That really changed my career path."

-Jenna Powers, Ph.D. student