$1.9 Million MA Grant To Fund Salem State Social Work Student Stipends

SALEM, MA — A state grant program designed to support social work and mental health support students as they pursue college degrees in the fields will fund $1.9 million in stipends to up to 72 Salem State University students preparing to enter the field.

The grants — up to $17,000 per student — will allow students to be paid as they pursue their practicum placements that are part of both bachelor's and master's degree programs.

"Our students have very full lives, balancing school, work and internships, and this grant is transformational in its support of Salem State students to be successful in completing their degrees," said SSU Associate Dean For Social Work Beth Massaro.

The stipends will be based on the hours required in the practicum with a $17,000 maximum for master's students and $10,000 for bachelor's students. The funding is considered separate from any other financial aid the student is receiving.

Salem State joined Bridgewater State University, Westfield State University and Boston College in receiving the funding, which ends in 2025.

"We are thrilled to offer this exceptional opportunity to our students," Massaro said. "Our commitment is to meet the diverse needs of every student, ensuring that we consistently deliver the highest quality in social work education.

"Students in community-based internships can apply, and as many as 72 stipends may be awarded. This is truly a win for our students."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at [email protected]. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)