Reflections from the Host: Dr. Peg Munke on the 2018 & 2019 Rural Social Work Institutes
Dr. Peg Munke shares her experiences hosting the 2018 and 2019 National Institutes on Social Work & Human Services in Rural Areas, held at Murray State University’s campuses in Murray and Paducah, Kentucky. From the charm of small-town hospitality to the cultural vibrancy of a UNESCO-designated arts city, Dr. Munke reflects on the distinct identities of both locations—and the meaningful role of food, student involvement, and community in the success of each event.
As current Chair of the National Rural Social Work Caucus Steering Committee, Dr. Munke is also preparing to host the 51st National Institute in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, in 2026. She highlights the vital importance of rural social work practice, student engagement, and advocacy within national social work education.
Whether you’ve attended the institutes before or are thinking of joining for the first time, this conversation is a warm invitation to celebrate the deep roots and growing impact of rural social work.