MSW Outstanding Grad: Albert Phipps

MSW Outstanding Grad: Albert Phipps

After working as a social worker, Albert Phipps decided to pursue a master’s degree in social work after two of his daughters attended UVU and absolutely loved it.

Born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Phipps graduated from Brigham Young University in 1998 with a degree in psychology. Since then, he’s been working in the social work field. However, to help more people, he was motivated to pursue further education. “When I returned for university after a 20-year break between my undergraduate studies and the pursuit of a master’s degree at Utah Valley University, I wondered if it was the right thing to do,” Phipps said.

Supportive professors helped to make UVU feel like home for Phipps. “I have come to care about my professors and my classmates so much. They are all so supportive and helped me be successful. I especially want to thank Lars Eggertsen, who never gave up on me and always greeted me in my native language, Maori. That made me feel really welcome.” Phipps also thanked Martin McDonell, A.J. Panos, and Elijah Nielson, who connected with and supported him throughout his time at UVU.

Phipps has excelled in his cohort, receiving the Social Worker of Promise Award during his first year and going on to receive the Outstanding Graduate Award during his final year. “UVU made me excited to learn again and ignited a fire within me to pursue education,” he said. “I have loved working with the professors at UVU, and I have loved the MSW cohort.”

With his new degree in hand, Phipps plans to continue working in the social work field, focusing primarily on child protection.

 
 
 
 
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