Dr. Rebekah Freese has served in a multitude of settings within the field of social work.
From hospitals to community mental health to policymaking, Freese draws from her vast array of experiences to connect Columbia College students with their own pathways.
“My career experience really has influenced me to understand that students need to have a wide range of opportunities to explore where their skill sets fit best,” says Freese, assistant professor and founding Master of Social Work practicum director. “I think experiential learning is one of the most critical pieces in the classroom that you can offer.”
“Experiential learning is one of the most critical pieces in the classroom that you can offer.”
Dr. Rebekah Freese, assistant professor and founding Master of Social Work practicum director
Freese holds her doctorate degree from the University of Missouri and joined the Columbia College School of Public Service faculty in August 2023. Using her 28 years of practice experience to enrich the learning environment, she aims to develop competent and skilled human service professionals.
She helped launch the college’s Master of Social Work Program in 2025.
“When we designed this program, we designed it with the intention of flexibility and a purpose so that students wouldn’t feel overwhelmed and they would be able to enjoy what they are learning but also be able to manage what they are learning,” Freese says.
Freese utilizes an “eclectic” teaching style and emphasizes active engagement with students, seeking to understand their needs and aspirations.
“We are taking our students from the classroom to practice and really providing them with that firm foundation so they are able to achieve their dreams, their goals and their desires for their own career,” Freese says.
