NASW-OK Welcomes Northwestern Senior to Board of Directors as Student Representative

July 15, 2026

ALVA, Okla. — The National Association of Social Workers Oklahoma Chapter (NASW-OK) recently announced the appointment of Isabella Burden to its Board of Directors as the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Student Representative for the 2026–2027 term, beginning July 1, 2026.

Burden, a Medicine Lodge, Kansas, senior majoring in social work, joins a newly elected and appointed group of leaders serving on the NASW-OK Board of Directors, bringing fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a strong commitment to advancing the social work profession across the state.

“I’m tremendously grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside professionals who are so dedicated to the social work profession,” Burden said. “I’m excited to be part of this new chapter for NASW-OK and look forward to connecting with and working alongside social work students, educators, and professionals across the state.”

As the BSW Student Representative, she will provide an important student voice to the board, helping ensure that the experiences, concerns, and aspirations of emerging social workers are reflected in the chapter’s leadership and initiatives.

“Isabella Burden’s election to the NASW-OK Board of Directors is a tremendous accomplishment and a testament to her dedication to the social work profession,” said Dr. Kylene Rehder, chair of the Northwestern Department of Social Work and professor of social work. “We are proud to see one of our students recognized for leadership at the state level and look forward to the meaningful contributions she will make on behalf of social work students throughout Oklahoma.”

According to NASW-OK, board members share a commitment to ethical practice, professional development and advocacy for policies that support individuals, families and communities throughout the state.

Burden joins the board at a pivotal time as NASW-OK continues to expand professional support for social workers, strengthen advocacy efforts and advance initiatives that benefit communities across Oklahoma.

NASW-OK describes itself as the state's leading professional organization for social workers, working to advance the social work profession and support policies and programs that benefit individuals, families and communities throughout Oklahoma.

For more information, visit the Northwestern Department of Social Work webpage, or contact Rehder at kdrehder@nwosu.edu or (580) 327-8135.

-NW-

Media Contact:
Sean J. Doherty, University Relations Specialist
Email: sjdoherty@nwosu.edu
Phone: 580-327-8480