Faculty Profiles

Dr. Kelly Eberhart, LSW, DSW

Dr. Kelly Eberhart, DSW, LCSW

Social Work
Social Work - Grad Studies

Carpe diem!

Critical thinking and self-reflection are two key aspects that are encouraged in all the courses I teach. I believe that a student is empowered when given the freedom to bring past experiences into the classroom and combine them with the course objectives. Then allowing the student space for self-reflection on what they just learned provides a foundation of application. I believe that when I provided a learning environment for autonomy to exists for students that is where critical thinking and self-reflection thrive within them. Students’ autonomy and learning is what makes self-reflection valuable to the student. Allowing the student to have the power over their learning allows them to express themselves in ways that if the professor had the power may stifle the student’s ability to think critically and/or produce quality self-reflection.

Education 

DSW, University of Saint Thomas
MSW, Indiana University South Bend
BA, Bethel College

Areas of Expertise 

  • Gerontology
  • Student Center Learning

Research Interests 

  • Gerontology
  • Equitable Assessment for Students
  • Teaching Methods that Meet Students Where They Are At
  • Elevating Social Work as a Profession
  • Self-care
  • Faculty satisfaction

Courses Recently Taught 

  • Palliative & End of Life Care
  • Perspectives in Gerontology
  • Clinical Practice with Adults
  • Confronting Grief, Loss, Death & Bereavement
  • Integrated Practice/Policy Seminar: Children and Families
  • Human Growth & Development in the Social Environment
  • Small Group Theory & Practice

Professional Experience 

  • Bereavement Counselor & Social Worker at Center for Hospice Care
  • Alumni Director & Campus Ceremonies at IU South Bend
  • Academic and Education Advisor at Ivy Tech Community College