Sharla Bayles

College of Humanities and Social Sciences 

Social Work

Sharla A. Bayles, Clinical Assistant Professor of Social Work at Utah State University, serves the Blanding campus in the statewide system. Her extensive professional practice background in clinical mental health, child protection, crisis work, adoptions, aging, hospice, and Navajo health systems inform her teaching and mentorship in significant ways. She is a trusted community leader and mentor, working diligently to train culturally responsive students and improve community systems in San Juan County. She collaboratively developed the Indigenous People’s License Exam Preparation course, helping 21+ indigenous social workers prepare for their clinical exam who had previously experienced barriers to passing the exam. Sharla teaches numerous foundation and advanced courses in the graduate social work curriculum such as "Advanced Practice with Groups, Couples, & Families" and "Principles & Philosophies of Social Work." Beyond her academic endeavors, she maintains her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license and serves the profession as a member of Utah’s National Association of Social Work Board. Sharla's contributions extend beyond her academic and clinical roles; she has received numerous accolades, including the Recognition of Excellence Award for Faculty of the Year at the Blanding Campus (2022) and the DCFS Social Worker of the Year (2013).