Great Minds Fellowship Updates

In response to some identified challenges, the Ohio council has been actively engaging with the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) and the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) to discuss the experiences of providers and students in accessing funding through the Great Minds Fellowship (GMF). As a result, academic institutions participating in the GMF have identified a point of contact for the GMF that will serve as the lead person responsible for addressing challenges or concerns and each academic partner is targeting communications about the GMF to eligible programs and students in preparation for the upcoming semester.   Further, we understand OhioMHAS is working with ODHE to support a marketing campaign to promote GMF.  We understand that these efforts are resulting in increased awareness and inquiries for student internship and practicum placements – and we want to fully maximize use of these funds this fall.

Additionally, the National Association of Social Workers, Ohio Chapter, is hosting a stakeholder meeting on August 7th from 10am – 11am via zoom for university officials and community behavioral health agency staff to provide feedback to ODHE and OhioMHAS about GMF. The feedback will be used to inform NASW-OH’s advocacy for the program and to assist stakeholders with program implementation for the 24-25 academic year. Register online to attend the stakeholder session.

The Ohio Council will continue to work with the appropriate state departments as well as member organizations to monitor any ongoing challenges with GMF. As the fall semester approaches, please keep us informed regarding your experience with the GMF, ability to connect students to these resources, and access to supervision support funding.