On behalf of the National Association of Social Workers, Iowa Chapter, we are pleased to announce a Call for Proposals for our upcoming symposium!  We invite scholars, researchers, practitioners and professionals to submit abstracts for consideration.

Event Details:

• • • • Date: Thursday, Sept. 17 and Friday, Sept. 18, 2026
      • Location: DMACC FFA Building 1055 SW Prairie Trail PKWY Ankeny, IA 50023

In addition to the call for papers, we are thrilled to announce that Jonathan Singer, PhD, LCSW will be the 2026 NASW Iowa Symposium Keynote Speaker on Friday, September 18, 2026.

The symposium aims to foster compassion, embrace diversity, and advance ethical standards, innovation and advocacy within the field of social work.

We encourage submissions across the spectrum of topics that relate to social work practice, social work-related research, practitioner skill development, and self-care!  Note that submission does not guarantee acceptance of a proposal.

Submission Guidelines

Abstracts are due by 9am, Monday, April 20, 2026

Abstracts can be submitted by click this link text or clicking the following link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=KPdNY4Tp60ChGaxjr89tRp0OC2uPJnFHnh8Rgaph1zJUNjY2WDFMSjEyWEZQOUVERzI5Sk1TOU9JSC4u

Contact Details

Questions should be sent to Kessie Silas, MSW at education.naswia@socialworkers.org

Presenter Benefits

Accepted symposium presenters will present at the Symposium and receive free registration and CEUs for Thursday September 17, 2026 only. Lunch is not included with the free registration for presenters; you can purchase lunch only for that day.

NASW Iowa Chapter is excited to provide this platform for researchers and practitioners to share their insights and contribute to meaningful discussion. Your participation will enrich the symposium experience and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the field.

Please feel free to forward this call for proposals to colleagues and peers who may be interested in participating. Thank you for considering our invitation! We look forward to receiving your submissions and welcoming you to our symposium featuring keynote speaker Dr. Jonathan Singer.

The NASW-Iowa Professional Development Committee