Capella alumna Camille Boman earned a Master of Social Work and now serves as a Support Services Program Manager for a Minnesota nonprofit organization. Her work focuses on helping individuals and families access the support they need to heal, grow, and build brighter futures. In this Q&A, Camille reflects on what inspired her career, how her Capella experience prepared her for leadership, and the lessons she has learned while serving her community.
What inspired you to pursue work supporting mental health and community wellbeing?
Camille Boman, MSW: I was inspired to work in mental health and community wellbeing because I have a passion for addressing injustices and working to mitigate inequities that impact disenfranchised members of my community. Many systems that are in place are harmful and difficult for individuals and families to navigate. This can make accessing supports and services feel overwhelming and out-of-reach. In my current role, I am able to help individuals navigate these systems so they can heal, grow, and take care of their families.
How has your Capella experience, including the Capella Fellows program, influenced your work or career journey?
Camille Boman, MSW: My Capella experience has greatly influenced my career journey. When I started the MSW program, I was a Family Case Manager at Avivo’s substance use treatment program for mothers. During the program, I was promoted to Program Supervisor and began supervising the case management team. My course work relating to supervision skills and ethical decision making prepared me for this leadership role. As I graduated and became licensed, I was promoted again to Program Manager. I now supervise a team of 7, including Family Case Managers and Child Development Specialists. I have also been a part of developing and growing new programs to support fathers who are seeking treatment for substance use disorder.
What impact have you seen mental health support have within the communities you serve?
Camille Boman, MSW: When people have access to mental health support, they are able to work towards goals they have for themselves and their families. In my work with parents who have a substance use disorder, I have seen how chemical and mental health are very closely connected. It is difficult to address one without addressing the other. Additionally, substance use disorders and mental illnesses impact the whole family. When parents are able to learn skills, process traumas, and gain stability, they are able to break generational cycles and create healthy and safe lives for themselves and their children.
What message or advice would you share with others who want to make a difference in their communities?
Camille Boman, MSW: Advice I would give to someone who wants to make a difference in their community would be to find where your passions lie. There are so many ways to help those around us. You can volunteer at an animal shelter, go on a walk and pick up litter, participate in and vote in local elections, donate to a mutual aid fund, become a mentor for youth, or bring meals to those who are home bound. The opportunities are endless and the need is always there! Find what sparks your interest and lean into it. Most importantly, listen to those you are serving. Every individual is the expert of their own experience. Listen to what would be most helpful to them, even if you disagree. If we want to make communities that work for and support everyone, we need put those who have been forgotten and systemically disenfranchised at the center of conversations and the decision making process.
Are you a proud Capella graduate making an impact in your field or community? We’d love to hear your story. Share your accomplishments and be considered for a future alumni spotlight by submitting the Alumni Accomplishments Form. Your journey could inspire others to keep reaching their goals.
