AUGUSTA — The National Association of Social Workers Maine Chapter is proud to announce the recipients of its esteemed annual awards honoring the commendable efforts and achievements of five dedicated social workers, advocates, and organizations in the state of Maine. These awards underscore the commitment of NASW Maine to foster excellence in social work by recognizing individuals and agencies who have gone above and beyond in showcasing dedication and expertise in the field.
“We are honored to recognize this year’s award recipients, who have all demonstrated unparalleled dedication to the field of social work. Each winner exemplifies the core values and commitment to service that NASW Maine champions,” said Chris McLaughlin, MSW, LCSW, executive director of the NASW Maine Chapter. “Their contributions not only enhance individual lives but also strengthen communities all across Maine, setting inspiring standards for all professionals in our field.”
The 2024 NASW Maine Chapter Award Winners are:
• Social Worker of the Year: Gwendolyne Tuttle, LCSW
• Social Work Agency of the Year: Preble Street
• Advocate of the Year: Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross
• Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Champion of the Year: Dr. Elizabeth Depoy, MSW, PhD
• School Social Worker of the Year: Shana Kelley-Cohen, LCSW
The NASW Maine annual awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 29 at the NASW Maine Chapter Annual Conference, which will be held at the Samoset Resort in Rockport. We invite social workers, members of the community, stakeholders, and media representatives to join us in celebrating the accomplishments of these remarkable individuals. Register for this year’s annual conference by visiting https://naswme.socialworkers.org/Events/2024-Annual-Conference.
The NASW Maine Chapter remains dedicated to promoting, developing, and protecting the practice of social work and social workers and seeks to enhance the effective and efficient delivery of services to individuals and families in the state of Maine.
Founded in 1955 the National Association of Social Workers is the largest organization of professional social workers in the world, with over 150,000 members in 56 chapters nationwide and internationally. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies. The NASW Maine Chapter, with over 1,100 members, is the major professional social work organization in the state of Maine. The NASW Maine Chapter is committed to advancing professional social work practice and to promoting human rights, social and economic justice, and unimpeded access to services for everyone in our great state.