The George & Michael Heron Emergency Fund for Social Work Students

The George & Michael Heron Emergency Fund for Social Work Students honors the lives and legacies of George R. Heron (1938–2020) and Michael R. Heron (1981–2025). As an adjunct faculty for many years, George served as a mentor and inspiration to faculty, staff, and students. Michael’s impact will live on in the curricula, lessons, and commitment to social justice that have become the foundation of our Department and Programs.

George and Michael were champions of individuals and communities in need. They served on numerous boards and used their voices to advocate for needed change at the local, state, national, and global levels. They both extended help in many ways, including financially. Their passion for social welfare policy, social justice, and social work education are admirable and this fund will help ensure individuals committed to these principals will be helped on their journey to professional social work.

The Department is honoring George and Michael by continuing the George and Michael Heron Emergency Fund for Social Work Students. Donations to the fund will be used to assist social work students who face hardship. An advisory board will review applications and move quickly to distribute funds when needed by individual students. 

George and Michael helped others. They will be remembered and honored by continuing their work to reach out to the community in need and assist in moving individuals forward toward becoming professional social workers and social justice advocates.

If you would like to make a donation to the fund, please visit the link below. Please choose "Other Designation" in the drop-down menu and type "George & Michael Heron Emergency Fund" in the box.

If you are a Social Work Major or MSW student, please reach out to bswprogram@svsu.edu for information on how to apply.