The Social Work Program Advisory Board serves to provide practical community-based input to the Mars Hill University Social Work Program, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in training students for generalist social work practice.

We are happy to work with the following diverse community members:

Anna Boyles

Anna Boyles serves as the 2025-2026 Co-President of the Social Work Club. She is a Junior at Mars Hill University. Anna completed her junior internship with Pisgah Legal Services. On campus Anna serves as a First Year Mentor, the History Supplemental Instructor, she is on the MHU Dance Team, President of the Baptist Student Association, and a member of Tri Beta. Anna would like to work in advocacy and do policy work post-graduation.

Alanna Kinsella

Alanna Kinsella has been a member of the Mars Hill University Social Work Program Advisory Board since 2024. She graduated from Mars Hill University in 2014 with her BSW. She currently works for Homeward Bound of Western North Carolina as the Director of Homeless services. Alanna has experience working the field with humans experiencing homelessness or housing instability. These individuals can include specific barriers such as: mental health, substance use, disabled, aging and elderly, criminal justice involved, and unaccompanied minors. She has worked with HBWNC since her Junior internship in the MHU Social Work program in 2014. She has worked as Homeless Service Case Manager, Housing Case Manager, Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Program Manager and Assistant Director. Alanna says that the years in the field helped prepare her for her current role as Director of Homeless Services. Prior to living in North Carolina, she worked with Domestic Violence Survivors. When asked what excites her the most about the social work field she shared; “Social work is so dynamic and works with so many diverse humans. It is amazing to watch humans grow and accomplish goals while connecting with professionals that empower and advocate for change. It is amazing to see how people overcome adversity and develop stronger relationships in their community to impact not only personal growth but community growth/change as well.”

Amber Cook

Amber Cook has been a member of the Mars Hill University Social Work Program Advisory Board since 2024. She currently works for Buncombe County Health and Human Services. Amber has experience working in Caldwell County, Catawba County and Gaston County all in the areas of children and family services. Amber is currently an adjunct professor for Mars Hill University and teaches the Child Welfare class. When asked what makes her the most excited about social work she said “it’s cliche to say everything. The power of change. Helping families make sustainable changes in their lives to improve family units and childhoods.”