Info Sessions for New Orleans Study Program

Social Work 286: Special Topics (2 Credits)

Sites of Memory: Understanding Slavery's Impact Through Experiential Learning

New Orleans, Louisiana | June 17–21, 2027

With Professors Amber Alahakoon and Jalonta Glasco

Amber.Kinner-Alahakoon@SMSU.edu or Jalonta.Jackson-Glasco@SMSU.edu

Experience History. Explore Social Justice. Earn Course Credit.

Join Social Work faculty and fellow students for a powerful experiential learning opportunity that examines the legacy of slavery, racial inequality, community resilience, and social justice through direct engagement with historic and cultural sites in New Orleans and surrounding communities.

Course Highlights

Students will:

• Explore the historical legacy of slavery and its continued impact on society.
• Connect history, social policy, and social work practice.
• Learn about Hurricane Katrina and community recovery efforts.
• Participate in a service-learning experience.
• Examine issues of race, equity, advocacy, and systemic oppression.
• Engage with sites of memory that tell the stories of resistance, resilience, and change.
• Earn 2 academic credits.

Informational Meetings

• Thursday, September 17 at 7 p.m. CST
• Monday, September 21 at 7 p.m. CST
• Tuesday, September 22 at noon CST
• Sunday, October 18 at 3 p.m. CST

Join the Zoom meeting:
https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/95551908410
Meeting ID: 955 5190 8410

Program Cost

Estimated cost: $3,172*

The program fee includes:

• Round-trip airfare
• Hotel accommodations
• Ground transportation
• Guided tours and admissions
• Selected meals

Reserve Your Spot

Fall 2026 registration

To participate, students will:

• Register for Social Work 286.
• Complete required travel paperwork.
• Submit a $99 deposit.

Space is limited.

Why New Orleans?

New Orleans serves as a living classroom where students can examine the intersections of history, culture, race, policy, and social change. Through immersive experiences, students will better understand how historical systems continue to shape contemporary communities and social work practice.

Experience history where it happened and deepen your understanding of social justice through experiential learning in New Orleans.