SOCIALite: Dynasty von Hacker uses hands-on experience to make a difference

Dynasty von Hacker always felt drawn to a career where she could help others. After earning her associate’s degree in human services from Ivy Tech, she transferred to the IU School of Social Work at IUPUI where she found a community that shared her passion for service.

“The biggest thing I noticed about the School of Social Work was the sense of belonging,” von Hacker said.

Von Hacker made the most of her time at IUPUI, serving as an officer in the Bachelors of Social Work Student Association and collaborating with faculty on the Advances in Social Work academic journal.

Off-campus, she worked as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Opportunities for Positive Growth, an organization that provides support services to individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Von Hacker graduated with her Bachelor of Social Work in May, and she plans to earn her master’s degree through the accelerated MSW program at IUPUI. With an academic focus on mental health and addictions, she sees a career in clinical or medical social work in her future.

Von Hacker accredits her success to the IU School of Social Work faculty who inspired her along her journey.

“I like that the faculty have experience within the field but work as professors as well,” von Hacker said. “They always have a story to tell.”