Public Policy and Education Coordinator
Reginald Virgil, BSW
rvirgil.naswms@socialworkers.org
Reginald Virgil is a native of Petal which is located in Forrest County, MS. After graduating from Hattiesburg High School, he attended Pearl River Community College where he earned his Associate of Arts in Child Psychology. Next, he attended The University of Southern Mississippi, where he would soon enroll in the School of Social Work Program. While earning his undergraduate degree in social work, Reginald organized and facilitated forum discussions regarding race-related issues leading to him conducting qualitative research. The platform of his research titled, "Keep Calm Let's Discuss Racism", allowed him to help create a safe environment to discuss race-related issues with diverse groups of people, conduct qualitative survey analysis, and present research findings at conferences and workshops. Then he transitioned into community activism once he graduated with his Bachelor of Social Work degree. His involvement extended into social justice issues throughout communities in parts of south and central Mississippi and a few other states.
Reginald recently completed his Economic Development certificate with the Trent Lott National Center for Excellence in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, working on feasibility and target industry studies. He earned his master's degree with The University of Southern Mississippi in the School of Social Work in the Spring of 2023. He is also a co-founder and vice president of his first social justice non-profit organization, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., and a member of NASW Mississippi Chapter where he recently won an award for 'Public Citizen of the Year'. Recently, was nominated Social Worker of the Year. As of now, he plans to work with NASW-MS Chapter in a public policy role and to continue his community activism on local and state policies while being guided by the NASW Code of Ethics.
"Power exceeds nothing without demand"
Registered Lobbyist
The Clay Firm