26th Annual Summer Institute
Registration is now open!
The 26th Annual Summer Institute returns to the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff Tuesday through Thursday, July 15th-17th, 2025.
Empowering Communities in Need: Reimagining Support in Challenging Times
In the face of economic instability, social inequities, and global challenges, the need for innovative, compassionate, and sustainable support systems has never been more urgent. Empowering Communities in Need: Reimagining Support in Challenging Times brings together advocates, practitioners, scholars, and community leaders to explore transformative approaches to service delivery, policy change, and grassroots empowerment.
This conference invites participants to share best practices, research findings, and lived experiences that highlight the resilience and strength of communities navigating adversity. Through interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative learning, we aim to spark new ideas, foster meaningful connections, and inspire action that redefines how we support and uplift those most impacted by systemic barriers.
Join us as we envision a more resilient, connected, and empowered future—where support is reimagined, and every community thrives, even in the most challenging times.
We will hold two Pre-conference workshops from 9am-12pm on the first day, July 15th, Motivational Interviewing (MI) 4.0: Finding the Motivation by Denise Beagley, and Utilizing Expressive Art Interventions in Practice Settings by Liz Athens.
These are offered to conference and non-conference goers for an additional fee–see more information in our agenda pricing in registration. Each session offers 3 CEUs. You do not need to be registered for the conference to register for the Pre-conference.
Scholarship information
We are excited to announce scholarship opportunities for the upcoming ASU School of Social Work Summer Institute! These scholarships have been generously sponsored by Molina Healthcare and the Governor’s Office for Youth, Faith, and Families.
This initiative aims to support social work professionals and students who are committed to making a difference in their communities. Scholarships will cover conference registration fees, enabling recipients to participate in impactful workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities.
We encourage everyone to apply; however, priority consideration will be given to service providers in rural and Indigenous communities, as well as those from small nonprofit organizations.
We are grateful for the support of Molina Healthcare and the Governor’s Office for Youth, Faith, and Families for making this opportunity possible. Join us in Flagstaff for a transformative experience that will inspire and empower your work in social services!
The High Country Motor Lodge proudly welcomes our 26th Annual Summer Institute guest. The hotel is inspired by the vast beauty of northern Arizona — its rugged mountains, deep forests, and well-worn highways — the High Country Motor Lodge is much more than a roadside motel. It is an ode to the wilderness. A contemplative retreat set against a clear night sky.
Reservation Method
Our host lodging is again at the High Country Motor Lodge, located at 1000 W. Route 66, Flagstaff AZ 86001. Located approximately 1 mile away from the Conference Center, you can drive and park for free in the attached parking garage at the conference center or take an easy walk through the NAU campus (my favorite way to get there). They have offered us a great room discount. Please reserve your rooms before they sell out. Use the link below or call to reserve your room. Below is the information and instructions given to use from the hotel:
All reservations for the conference will be made individually by your guests. Please instruct them to call our on-site reservations department at 866-928-4265 to make their reservations.
*To ensure a smooth reservation process for your attendees, the 2025 ASU SSW Summer Institute Room Block is the group name callers will refer to when making their reservations.
Guests can also make their reservation on our website, by following the link below:
Contact Information
Toni Peters
Project Manager
[email protected]
Elizabeth Athens
Director of Continuing Education
[email protected]
Summer Institute Publication
For each of our online Summer Institutes, we created an accompanying publication featuring our sponsors and presenters.
Read the 2020 Publication
Read the 2021 Publication
Read the 2024 Publication
Thank you to your 2024 sponsors!
Title Sponsor
Saguaro Level
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Ocotillo Level
Yucca Level
Agave Level
Quartz Tier
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