Deer Lakes social worker says broad work experience readied her for the job

Logan Donahue didn’t envision a job as a school social worker, but she couldn’t be happier with her new role at Deer Lakes School District.

Her job experience includes work with a forensic psychologist, the homeless and people suffering traumatic brain injuries. She said the breadth of work adds to her ability to empathize and support people in various situations.

“I truly believe that the profession of social work is one that considers all aspects of the human experience and seeks to find solutions that will benefit the individual in their entirety,” Donahue said.

She began her new post at Deer Lakes in January.

According to the National Institutes of Health, school social workers can help students improve academic scores, support mental health, help with social skills and level the playing field with access to family resources.

They have become an administrative staple to serve as a liaison between students, families and outside resources.

“My goal is to be there to support students and their families to the best of my abilities,” said Donahue, a Butler native who graduated from Butler Area High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology from Duquesne University. She earned a master’s degree in social work from Carlow University.

Prior to Deer Lakes, Donahue worked as a school social worker in the the South Butler School District.

“I never imagined that my path would lead me to working within a school, but now that I am here I can’t imagine being anywhere else,” she said.

Deer Lakes Superintendent Janell Logue-Belden said social workers are part of the district’s mission to foster a safe and supportive learning environment for all students to maximize their school experience.

“Through her dedication and expertise, Ms. Donahue will be a valuable and trusted resource for students to help them succeed,” Logue-Belden said.

Donahue’s work experience also includes a stint at the Butler County Children’s Advocacy Center and working with children on the autism spectrum at a specialized summer camp.

“During my last class before earning my master’s, my professor stated that he believes the profession of social work is one of the greatest careers you can pursue,” Donahue said. “Although I might be biased, I couldn’t agree more. While the work is hard, if you are able to help even one person, the rewards are tremendous.”