Ashanae Morrison, Master of Social Work

Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Ashanae Morrison came to the United States with a passion for service and a desire to uplift her community.

Since arriving nine years ago, Morrison has built a legacy of leadership and academic excellence, in addition to strong community engagement pursuing degrees in Social Work at Stockton University.

As an undergraduate, Morrison competed as a track and field athlete, setting school records while traveling for competitions. At the same time, she worked as a student employee in the Office of Advocacy, Belonging and Campus Standards, balancing the demands of athletics, academics and work.

Her leadership extended beyond the classroom and track. Morrison served as president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years and co-founded the Stockton Christian Fellowship Alliance, creating spaces for students to connect through faith and community.

In her senior year, Morrison received the 2025 Dean of Students Service Award, which recognizes one student each year for their outstanding dedication, service and commitment.

She also worked as a resident assistant during her undergraduate years, further supporting student life on campus. Now completing graduate studies, Morrison continues her impact as a graduate research assistant and graduate hall director for Kesselman Hall in Atlantic City.

Despite her many accomplishments, Morrison said her journey has not been without challenges. Adjusting to life in the United States as an international student required resilience and determination.

“The process of adjustment and acculturation is ongoing.” Morrison said. “In my eyes, this process has not necessarily an obstacle but a pruning process.”

Currently, Morrison works as a behavioral assistant for youth in the New Jersey System of Care, where she supports young people navigating complex personal and social challenges. Her work reflects her broader commitment to social work as a tool for empowerment.

Morrison was also selected for the Council on Social Work Education Minority Fellowship Program, a highly competitive national fellowship that supports students dedicated to serving underrepresented communities.

She believes social work offers one of the most impactful ways to create meaningful change.

“Social work is one of the greatest avenues to empower people in every area of life,” Morrison said.

Her service spans a wide range of communities, including individuals experiencing addiction and recovery, youth, incarcerated individuals, immigrants and those facing displacement.

Looking ahead, Morrison plans to continue working as an in-community therapist for youth while exploring opportunities in macro-level policy work after completing her Master of Social Work this spring.

She credits much of her success to the mentorship and support she received from Stockton faculty, including Associate Professor Maya Lewis, program chair of the Social Work program, and instructor Maria Castillo, who taught her Spanish.

Outside of her academic and professional responsibilities, Morrison makes time for creative expression. Recently, she has reconnected with her passion for dance.

“I’ve started dancing again in more social spaces,” she said. “In December, I performed with Arlin’s Dance Spot in Pleasantville, doing ballet and hip-hop for their seasonal show. I also dance with my church’s dance team and recently performed for Easter.”