Rutgers School of Social Work Community Comes Together in Washington, DC for Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest
On April 30, more than 120 Rutgers School of Social Work students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community members traveled to Washington, DC, for an afternoon of reflection and inspiration centered on the life and legacy of civil rights icon and longtime congressman, John Lewis.
The Rutgers delegation joined leaders from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Howard University School of Social Work, and The Catholic University of America to attend Mosaic Theater Company’s acclaimed production of Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest.
The musical explores Lewis’ formative years between ages 18 and 28, tracing his evolution from a determined young student to one of the most influential leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. Through an energetic blend of music, storytelling, and historical reflection, the production brought to life Lewis’ commitment to nonviolent protest, collective action, and the belief that ordinary people—especially young people—have the power to create extraordinary change.
For Rutgers School of Social Work students, the event was designed as more than a theater outing. The school offered the experience free of charge, including round-trip transportation to Washington and a signed copy of John Lewis: A Life by Rutgers historian David Greenberg, allowing students to engage more deeply with Lewis’ story and legacy beyond the stage.
The afternoon continued with a panel discussion featuring Greenberg, Mosaic Theater Company Artistic Director Reginald L. Douglas, and Rutgers School of Social Work Associate Professor of Professional Practice Marla Blunt-Carter, LMSW. Together, the panelists explored the ongoing relevance of Lewis’ activism, drawing connections between the Civil Rights Movement and contemporary struggles for racial justice, voting rights, equity, and community empowerment.
The experience created a meaningful opportunity for members of the Rutgers School of Social Work community to engage across generations and roles, from current students to alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters, while reflecting on the values that define both social work and democratic participation.
“This experience underscored the essential connection between social work, civic engagement, and collective action,” said Dean & Distinguished Professor George Leibowitz. “John Lewis’ story reminds us that meaningful change requires courage, persistence, and a willingness to stand up for what is right. Bringing our community together for this shared experience was an opportunity to reflect on our profession’s deep commitment to justice and to inspire the next generation of leaders and changemakers.”
The event was made possible in large part through stalwart Rutgers supporter and Mosaic Theater Company board member, Leslie Scallet, whose commitment helped create this enriching opportunity for students and the broader social work community.
By bringing together students, educators, practitioners, donors, and community leaders for a shared experience grounded in history, activism, and hope, Rutgers School of Social Work reinforced its ongoing mission to prepare social workers who are ready to lead, advocate, and advance social change in communities across New Jersey and beyond.
