2026 Social Work Month Voices: Franshandra Owens, MSW, LCSW

As the NASW celebrates 70 years of advocacy and advancement, this upcoming Social Work Month we want to continue to collect stories from across the profession. Read Franshandra’s story and see how this year’s Social Work Month Theme, “Uplift. Defend. Transform.” resonates with them.

Franshandra Owens, MSW, LCSW

(she/her/hers)

Where did you get your degree(s)?

• Millikin University-Bachelors of Science: Interdepartmental Studies

• University of Illinois Champaign- Urbana- Master of Social Work

Current Occupation/Practice Area(s):

Trauma Therapist/ Springfield, IL

In what ways are you involved with NASW-IL?

2025 IL Social Worker of the Year

How did you choose the social work path? What inspired you?

I initially went to Millikin University for Nursing, but found when I got into it that I didn't have a passion for that work. I didn't know what I wanted to do otherwise, so I continued to go through that program until I failed out 1 semester from graduating. By that point, I know that I loved all the ways that I could effect the community, through education, advocacy, and the case work that is done in hospitals; and didn't have to be a nurse to do that. So I talked my way into a "build your own" degree program at MU, creating Health Science as my degree. I should have known after doing so much work for myself that I would be a social worker, but decided to work at a community mental health organization in Springfield for 2 years before going back to get my MSW at UIUC. I was inspired to go into Social Work specifically because of the experience I had at MU and working in mental health. I think it is important to have social workers who are passionate about the work and don't mind being the person someone needs in the moment.

What are some of the essential skills needed to be an effective social worker?

Adaptability, strong work ethic, always willing to learn, empathetic, and culturally competent.

What changes or innovations do you see coming to the social work profession?

I believe more specific work in advocacy and community social work will be needed. We will need to be in front of the ever changing times and pushing our communities in ways we can work together to thrive.

Does the 2026 Social Work Month theme, "Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform." resonate to you? Is it already integrated in your work?

I believe the theme is on point for where we are in society right now. At the trauma center where I work, we have been striving to uplift, defend, and transform our clients day to day as well as our community through our care.

Words of wisdom for someone considering the social work profession?

The work isn't always glamorous but it is worthwhile. I would encourage anyone to look into what is social work and the different ways you can utilize it personally and professionally.

Anything else we should know about you or NASW-IL or social work?

I am a firm believer in being open and authentically yourself. Social work will allow you to do that, and give permission for others to do the same.