Shabranda Bronson

My name is Shabranda Bronson, and I am a graduate student pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) at Arizona State University. I am originally from the Milwaukee area in Wisconsin, and my passion for social work is rooted in my commitment to social justice, community empowerment, and advocating for underserved populations, particularly youth and families impacted by systemic inequalities.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point in 2019. My educational background in psychology helped shape my understanding of human behavior, mental health, trauma, and the social and environmental factors that influence individual development. As I continued my professional journey, I became increasingly interested in addressing systemic barriers and creating opportunities for individuals and families to thrive.

I currently work as a Human Service Worker with Milwaukee County's Department of Health and Human Services, Children, Youth, and Family Services (CYFS), within the Youth Justice system. In this role, I work directly with justice-involved youth and their families, providing case management, advocacy, service coordination, and rehabilitative support. My work focuses on helping young people develop positive decision-making skills, strengthen family and community connections, and successfully transition into adulthood. I also have experience working with vulnerable youth populations through my previous graduate field placement at Pathfinders Youth Shelter.

Throughout my graduate education, I have developed a strong interest in trauma-informed care, mental health, youth justice reform, clinical social work, and community-based interventions. I am especially passionate about addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities within the juvenile justice and child welfare systems. I believe young people deserve opportunities for rehabilitation, healing, and personal growth rather than being defined by their circumstances or past decisions.

My long-term professional goal is to develop a nonprofit organization that provides community-based services and alternatives to incarceration for youth. I envision creating a safe and welcoming space where young people can access mentorship, mental health resources, educational support, life skills development, and meaningful opportunities to build their futures. I also hope to contribute to program development, policy reform, and broader systems change that improves outcomes for underserved communities.

Outside of my academic and professional responsibilities, I enjoy reading, weightlifting, playing the violin, exploring art and creativity, and finding opportunities to give back to my community. I value lifelong learning, personal growth, and building meaningful relationships with others.

Ultimately, my goal as a social worker is to empower individuals, advocate for equity, and help create systems and communities where young people and families have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed.