Cat Steele is a third-year student in the Online Bachelor of Social Work program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She is also a program coordinator for the local Community Action Committee. The online program has allowed her the freedom to continue working full-time while obtaining an education. Being a Knoxville native has provided her with countless opportunities for campus engagement.

She has extensive experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and individuals living in residential inpatient settings. Thus far, her career has focused on behavioral crises management. She is currently interested in the macro aspect of social work as it relates to policy and infrastructure for underserved populations. In this role, Cat is able to align her personal and professional desires to encourage change at a systemic level. Additionally, Cat is interested in researching relationships between intellectual and developmental disabilities and various mental health diagnoses.

Cat’s personal interests include spending time with her husband and pets, playing video games, reading any book she can get her hands on, and any opportunity to connect with others. She is currently a member of two honors societies at UT and is also part of a research team aiming to expand the knowledge about new mothers and their babies in relation to depression and anxiety. If you are interested in learning more about the College of Social Work, want more information on the Knoxville area, what being a VOL is like, want a new pen pal, or have any questions about any further information, then please reach out to Cat via email to schedule an appointment: csteel14@vols.utk.edu.