HSU Social Work Students Show that Love Shouldn’t Hurt

On February 21, 2024, Hardin-Simmons University social work students and members of Sigma Beta organized a panel to spread awareness of domestic violence. The event, titled “Love Shouldn’t Hurt,” provided access to key members of the community, local law enforcement, and HSU resources.

The panel included Judge Shawna Joiner, Justice of the Peace; Gina Trevino, Victim Services Coordinator with the Abilene Police Department; Amanda Keith, Clinic Counselor at the Regional Victim Crisis Center; Rode Owen, Dean of Students at HSU; Aaron Martinez, University Counselor at HSU; Cynthia Wimberly, Primary Prevention Director at the Noah Project; and Dean Stringer, Chief of Police at HSU. 

Each panel member explained their role in helping victims of domestic violence, providing information to social work students who will work with victims in their future careers, and advising anyone in the room who may be experiencing domestic violence. Judge Shawna Joiner, a survivor of domestic violence, spoke candidly of her personal experiences. She emphasized the message that “love shouldn’t intimidate or control.” She continued to provide valuable insight to guide young men and women.  

Another notable statement was given by Cynthia Wimberly, the Primary Prevention Director at the Noah Project, who made it clear during the presentation that there is no reason to turn away a victim seeking help at their doors. 

Following the presentation, current student Amy Shelton, President of the Sigma Beta Club and Vice President of the Social Work Club, mentioned that this was a big undertaking and one that couldn’t have happened without help from HSU’s social work program. When asked why she felt this topic was important to explore, she said,

We want students, faculty, and staff to know how to help.

Every day, students, both on campus and in the community, provide lasting differences in people’s lives everywhere. If you or someone you know is currently going through a situation you believe could be related to domestic violence, please contact the Noah Project at 1-800-444-3551 or the HSU Office of Counseling Services at 325-671-2272 or counseling@aprender-a-bailar.com.