WAXAHACHIE, Texas (Oct. 28, 2026) – For the third consecutive year, students from Nelson University’s Social Work Department had the opportunity to serve at The Heights Ellis County Annual Luncheon on Oct. 21, 2026.

The event brings together community leaders, advocates, and supporters committed to strengthening public safety and supporting survivors of family abuse.

“We want students to not only learn about social work, but to see social work in action. Students can gain real-world experience by connecting with organizations within the community to see how to serve the people around them,” said Dr. Lacey Godsby, Nelson Professor and Social Work Field Placement Coordinator. “I am always so proud to watch our students step into their calling.”

Each year, the luncheon educates the community about services available through The Heights and highlights emerging needs throughout Ellis County. This year’s initiative focused on public safety and explored how the stories of many survivors of domestic violence remain “To Be Determined” as they work toward safety, healing, and hope.

Representatives from organizations including Believing Restoration is Attainable (BRIA), The Ellis County Homeless Coalition, Unite Ellis, the Waxahachie Police Department, The Heights shelter staff, and many other community partners attended the event.

“Many of our students will go on to volunteer, intern, or potentially work with agencies they made connections with today. This is how we build community,” Dr. Godsby said. 

Those connections help students better understand the network of services available throughout Ellis County while preparing them to collaborate effectively with professionals from a variety of disciplines.

The Nelson Social Work Department has worked alongside The Heights Ellis County since the organization’s founding vision first began to take shape. The Heights is a faith-based organization built around the Family Justice Center model, which brings multiple agencies together to provide coordinated support for victims of family abuse. Over the years, Nelson student interns have helped develop policies and procedures, supported client services, and contributed to programs that meet the needs of individuals and families throughout Ellis County.

For students considering a career in social work, partnerships like this provide valuable opportunities to learn from professionals already serving the community. 

Nelson University’s Bachelor of Social Work program equips students with the knowledge, practical experience, and professional connections needed to serve individuals, families, and communities with excellence. 

Learn more about the Social Work program at Nelson University.

Greater with Faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online.

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About Nelson University 

Nelson University is a private Christian institution located in Waxahachie, Texas, just 30 minutes south of the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex. Established in 1927, the university offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs on campus and online. With a mission to integrate faith and learning, Nelson equips students to pursue their God‑given callings within a Spirit‑empowered community. For additional details, Request Information or call 1‑888‑937‑7248.