Ruth Cislowski

Ruth Cislowski serves as Associate Teaching Professor and Assistant Director of Practicum Education at the University of Southern California's School of Social Work. With over 30 years of experience in nonprofit social services, she specializes in leadership principles, program management, and virtual field education methodologies.

Her educational background includes:

• MSW from University of Southern California (1996)
• MA from Hebrew Union College (1996)
• BS from Miami University (1990)

Cislowski's research focuses on innovative social work education models, particularly the transition to online programming and virtual field practicum development. Her work emphasizes evidence-based interventions like Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy within simulated client environments. She has pioneered the Virtual Field Practicum (VFP) course, providing real-time feedback on intervention implementation.

Her publication on organizational change in social work education demonstrates expertise in managing institutional transitions while addressing stakeholder impacts. The research highlights practical applications of action research models in academic settings.

Professional recognitions include:

• Woman of the Year, California 29th Congressional District (2022)
• West Hollywood Women in Leadership Award (2018)

Cislowski actively contributes to professional organizations including the Online Learning Consortium, Council on Social Work Education, National Association of Social Workers, and Network for Social Work Management. Her industry experience spans program development, government relations, health/wellness education, and nonprofit fundraising. Current teaching includes the innovative 589a Applied Learning in Field Education (Virtual Field Practicum) course.