Yoder was inducted into the 2025 and 2026 Pioneers program classes, created to honor social workers who have made significant contributions to advancing the profession.
Yoder spent more than five decades establishing the high standard to which social work can achieve when compassion is paired with courage, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Yoder’s career reflects a rare blend of visionary leadership, community engagement, and transformative teaching that has left a lasting impact on mental health care, criminal justice reform, social work education, and public policy in Indiana and beyond.
Yoder taught sociology and social work at Manchester for nearly 40 years, where he guided the social work program through continuous CSWE accreditation since 1978, developed a criminal justice major, and taught courses in sociology and peace studies. He helped to create the Wabash County Habitat for Humanity Affiliate and the Manchester University Habitat Campus Chapter. He led 31 Habitat Spring Break Workcamps in nine states.
“Our Hoosier Social Work Pioneers reflect lifelong work and commitment to the social work profession,” stated Beryl Cohen, Executive Director, NASW-IN. “Because of their selfless dedication to improving lives through the practice of social work, Brad, Stephan, and Lori have put Indiana in an enviable leadership spotlight—they are truly a credit to the State of Indiana.”
For the media
Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
Manchester University graduated 269 students at this year’s commencement ceremonies. In total, 286 degrees were awarded, including 186 undergraduate degrees and 100 graduate and professional degrees. Twenty-eight students earned honors distinction. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the graduation of Manchester’s inaugural pharmacy class in 2016. The program launched in 2012 alongside the opening of Manchester University Fort Wayne. David Haist, a 1973 Manchester graduate, was this year’s commencement speaker and honorary degree recipient. He served as a member of the MU Board of Trustees...
Manchester University’s Dean of the School of Pharmacy, W. Thomas Smith, was recently published in the Journal Gazette. His op-ed, which can be read below, discusses the growing need for pharmacists in the industry. The full Journal Gazette article can be found here. Need for pharmacists grows more complicated As Indiana’s population ages and chronic disease becomes more common, pharmacists play an increasingly important role in patient care in community pharmacy and hospital settings. Trained in medication management, drug interactions,...
Manchester University will host its third-annual esports summer camp this June, open to community youth. Two camps, focused on Super Smash Bros., will be offered: a day camp for rising 3rd through 6th graders on June 27, and an overnight camp for rising 7th through 12th graders on June 26-28. Beginners are expected to join the day camp, while the overnight camp is targeted toward moderate to advanced players. The camps will include individualized Super Smash Bros. instruction from MU Esports coaching staff, head-to-head tournaments, and on-campus dining. All campers are required to bring...
