MANSFIELD — Missie Boyd has been working toward a degree in social work so she can make a difference in her community. Now, the 41-year-old from Mansfield has the opportunity to make a difference nationwide.

As a senior at The Ohio State University at Mansfield, Boyd has been chosen as one of 20 OSU students to participate in the 2018 Ohio State College of Social Work Washington, D.C. Fly-in from March 20 to 23.

She was selected from a group of exceptional students through a highly-competitive process.

“I am honored to get to represent Ohio State Mansfield in Washington, D.C. I feel like this is a great opportunity for me to learn about advocacy and my future as a social worker,” Boyd said.

During the fly-in, students from Ohio State team up with students from The University of Alabama and meet with members of Congress on Capitol Hill to advocate for three bills related to social work. The trip is a once in a lifetime opportunity and students will likely have the opportunity to meet with Congresswoman Joyce Beatty and Senator Sherrod Brown.

As the mother of a 12-year- old son who has autism, Boyd knows personally how advocacy and caseworkers can positively impact lives.

“I feel that by choosing social work, I am repaying all of the great caseworkers that we had in the past who helped me get my son to where he is today.”

Boyd is currently an intern at Abraxas Youth & Family Services in Shelby, Ohio. She is also the president of the Best Buddies chapter at Ohio State Mansfield. She will graduate with her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work in May.

About The Ohio State University College of Social Work

The College of Social Work, through excellence in teaching, research, and service, prepares leaders who enhance individual and community well-being, celebrate difference, and promote social and economic justice for vulnerable populations.

The College fosters social change through collaboration with individuals, families, communities, and other change agents to build strengths and resolve complex individual and social problems. As an internationally recognized College, we build and apply knowledge that positively impacts Ohio, the nation, and the world.