Dr. Shelly Statz

Biography

Dr. Shelly Statz is a social work educator and academic administrator with nearly 30 years of professional experience, including 15 years in higher education across undergraduate and graduate social work programs. Her experience encompasses academic leadership, program administration, curriculum development, field education, faculty support, and clinical social work practice. She currently serves as Program Chair for the Bachelor of Social Work program at Herzing University, providing academic leadership in program development, curriculum oversight, faculty support, and student success. Previously, she served as a Field Education Director and core faculty member in a Master of Social Work program. Dr. Statz earned her Doctor of Social Work from George Williams College of Aurora University and her Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Her doctoral research focused on emotional intelligence and undergraduate social work education. She holds Licensed Clinical Social Worker credentials in Wisconsin and California, along with additional professional training in online instruction, EMDR, and neuropsychotherapy.

Dr. Statz’s scholarly contributions include publications addressing multicultural counselor education and crisis counseling preparation. Her professional presentations have explored law enforcement and mental health collaborations, social workers in administrative and leadership roles, and the unique mental health needs of students. She maintains professional engagement with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), Minnesota Social Service Association (MSSA) and National Association of Social Workers–Wisconsin Chapter (NASW-WI). Throughout her career, she has remained committed to advancing social work education and practice, strengthening academic programs, supporting faculty development, and preparing future social workers to meet the evolving needs of individuals, families, and communities.