Cassie Niedhammer: A Passion for Healing and Community
In a world where the power of connection and understanding can transform lives, Cassie Niedhammer shines brightly as a beacon of hope. Recognized as the Clinical Intern of the Year from the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University, Cassie’s journey reflects a profound commitment to helping others, particularly children and families navigating the complexities of grief.
Originally from southern Indiana, Cassie now resides just outside of Chicago, though she proudly identifies as a Hoosier (and Bear now!). Her unique educational background began at The American School in Switzerland, where she immersed herself in diverse cultural and faith experiences. This early exposure shaped her worldview and laid the foundation for her future endeavors in social work.
Finding Her Path
Cassie began her studies at the Garland School of Social Work in August of 2021, drawn by the program’s integration of faith and practice, and recognizing that social work aligned with her values and aspirations.
Initially intending to pursue a degree in psychology, Cassie’s path shifted after a poignant experience while substitute teaching. Witnessing the impact of grief on her students following the unexpected deaths of parents ignited a passion within her to support those in crisis.
“After starting The Redeeming Ruth Project [a nonprofit], I saw how my experiences and passions overlapped with social work,” she said. “I truly consider this my calling.”
A Sacred Space
During her internship, Cassie experienced incredible growth, merging two years of classroom learning with real-world application.
During her internship with Fox Valley Hands of Hope, she primarily worked with children and their families. She ran elementary, middle and high school grief groups, and also served individual clients and consulted with families around anticipatory death and how to provide support.
In addition, she provided education around polyvagal practices and autonomic regulation, wrote an intern handbook, added trauma-informed practices to volunteer training protocol and a number of other validated measures to be used within the agency.
“The understanding I gained as a professional is something that can't be taught in a textbook. It’s about walking alongside individuals in their most challenging moments,” she reflected. “This is a sacred space we occupy together.”
Cassie's commitment to this work is evident in her focus on children and families, particularly around grief work. Her heart for this population drives her daily efforts and ambitions for the future.
Looking Ahead
Cassie graduated in May and began her next chapter as the Director of Child and Family Grief Services at Fox Valley Hands of Hope, the very place she had interned. She officially accepted the position earlier this year and is continuing to expand her skills by pursuing her LCSW and certification as a Thanatologist, alongside training to become a yoga instructor.
“Social work is not a walk in the park,” she acknowledged. “It requires us to wrestle with our own tensions ethically, morally, professionally and as flat-out human beings.”
However, she views her work as a privilege, “At almost 40, I get to walk into my dream job, working alongside kiddos and families in some of the most difficult moments in their lives.”
Words of Wisdom
For those who follow in her footsteps, Cassie offers heartfelt advice: “Do the work for the learning, not the grade. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Be yourself; that’s your greatest tool. And take moments every day for yourself—whether through gratitude, grace or connection. Work hard, and it will all be worth it in the end.”
As Cassie Niedhammer embarks on this next chapter of her life, her unwavering passion for social work and her dedication to serving others will undoubtedly continue to impact many lives. She is not just a student-turned-alumni but a testament to the power of empathy, resilience and the transformative journey of healing.
Cassie added: “So, I leave you with this: what will you do when you grow up?”
Cassie is a graduate of our online Master of Social Work degree program. Interested in how you can make a difference like Cassie? Learn about our online MSW here, or reach out to our Admissions Team by emailing MSW_Admissions@baylor.edu.