This fall quarter, Walla Walla University’s Amanda Lewis—associate professor of social work and sociology at the Billings, Montana, campus—was announced as the 2025 National Association of Social Workers Montana (NASW-MT) Academic Social Worker of the Year.
According to the letter of support for Lewis’ award, “Dr. Amanda Lewis is not only deserving of this award—she represents what this award is meant to honor: a deep commitment to the people of her region, a fierce loyalty to the principles of social work, and a profound impact on the future of the field through education, advocacy, and example.”
Every year, this award honors a member of the NASW, and this year’s award not only highlights Lewis’ extraordinary dedication to teaching and mentorship but also reflects the broader culture of excellence that defines WWU’s academic community. “Dr. Lewis’ recognition is a shining example of the high standards, passion, and professionalism that all WWU faculty strive to uphold, and we are incredibly proud to call her one of our own,” said Ileana Villeda, Billings campus coordinator and assistant professor of social work and sociology.
Lewis first began teaching at WWU as an adjunct professor in 2017 and quickly transitioned to a full-time faculty member in 2018, where she has continued to skillfully integrate rigorous academic content with her real-world experience as a clinical social worker. A fellow Billings campus faculty member called Lewis an “exceptional educator who consistently delivers high-quality graduate instruction.”
Lewis was recognized for her significant redesign of the Billings campus’ research curriculum, enhancing students' confidence, critical thinking, and ethical competence in the application of scientific methods to social work practice. But what really made her stand out as a nominee was her belief that the quality of a student’s education matters far more than the quantity of students she teaches.
Lewis' nomination letter said, “She is deeply invested in each student’s growth, regularly going beyond the classroom to offer guidance, feedback, and mentorship. Her teaching style is student-centered and values-driven.” Exceptional education at WWU begins with both the integration of faith and learning in small classes that offer personalized attention from dedicated professors like Lewis.
For more information about the Wilma Hepker School of Social Work and Sociology, visit wallawalla.edu/social-work. To find out more about this award from Lewis herself, go to https://www.youtube.com/@NASWMT.
Posted Jan. 7, 2025.
