O ctober 16 - 18 202 5
CONFERENCE CHAIR WELCOME
Welcome to the 2025 NASW Texas Virtual Conference, “Social Work: Compassion + Action” October 16 – 18, 2025
On behalf of the Conference Planning Committee, I’d like to welcome you to the 2025 NASW Texas Virtual Conference! This year’s virtual format has been designed to save you money, cut travel and hotel headaches, and make Texas’ most relevant social work education more accessible and flexible than ever.
This year, you will have the opportunity to earn up to 22 CEUs by attending the LIVE webinar sessions or up to 50 CEUs by watching the session recordings on-demand through November 14, 2025. We have several featured speakers who are leaders and experts in their field, including Brad Pritchett, Libby Kay, Dr. Linda Openshaw, Dr. Frederic G. Reamer, Monica Romo, and Dr. Kenshara Cravens-Knoxson. Through these sessions, you will connect with hundreds of fellow social workers and colleagues from across the state, while also gaining opportunities to engage directly with our sponsors and exhibitors in the Virtual Exhibit Hall who can help strengthen your expertise and knowledge within the trusted voice of the social work profession in Texas.
I am confident that the time and effort you invest in this conference will not only provide valuable opportunities for professional development, growth, and learning, but also enrich our profession. I want to give a SHOUT OUT to our 2025 Conference Planning Committee, the NASW Texas Board of Directors, our local Branch Leaders, and especially our NASW Texas Chapter office staff for their hard work, time, and efforts in making this happen. I appreciate your willingness to step up, to help out, to participate, and be a leader in your field but more importantly in our profession.
I hope you have a great conference, and I thank you again for your support and membership in NASW.
Michael P. Gianotti, LMSW-IPR, ACSW
2025 NASW Texas Conference Planning Committee Chair
For platform support assistance, please email Technical Support at naswtx2025@getvfairs.io. For registration and general questions, please call NASW Texas, at (512) 4741454, during event hours: Thursday, October 16, 8:00 AM7:00 PM CDT; Friday, October 17, 8:00 AM-7:30 PM CDT; and Saturday, October 18, 8:00 AM-1:00 PM CDT.
Troubleshooting tips:
For login issues, make sure you’re using same email address you used to register for the conference.
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PREMIER SPONSOR
CONFERENCE SPONSORS
EXHIBITORS
Carroll College
MindfulU Institute
HHSC Early Childhood Intervention
NASW Texas Membership Benefits and Services QMedic
Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work
Tulane School of Social Work
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Social Work
SESSION SPONSORS
Diana R. Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University
Texas A&M University Central Texas SW Dept
NASW TEXAS
naswtex.naswtx@socialworkers.org www.naswtx.org facebook.com/NASWTexas instagram.com/naswtexaschapter
https://bsky.app/profile/naswtx.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/company/nasw-texas-chapter/
SPECIAL THANKS
CONFERENCE PLANNING COMMITTEE: Mike Gianotti, LMSW-IPR, ACSW (Chair); Stacie McGee, LMSW-IPR; Dr. Blanca Sanchez McGee, LCSW; Sharita Harding, LCSW; Kino Hickey, LCSW and Ciera Cooper, DSW, LCSW.
PRESENTERS: The sessions are created and presented by volunteer experts who donate their time. Our heartfelt thanks to each of you for your contribution and service to the profession!
ABSTRACT READERS: Sincere thanks to our 2025 Abstract Review Coordinators: Dr. Totundra “Shay” Grays, LCSW, Dr. Blanca Sanchez McGee, LCSW, and Kino Hickey, LCSW.
Much appreciation also goes out to the following Abstract Readers who shared their time to ensure we created a top-notch educational program for our attendees: Karla Arenas-Itotia, LMSW; Tamika Baldwin-Clark, LCSW; Amy Brenner, LCSW; Jennifer Carpenter, LCSW; Christy Collins, LCSW-S; Vanessa Cordoba, LMSW; Rhonda Evans, LCSW; Leyla Feize, LCSW; Brandi Felderhoff, LCSW; Mikaela Frissell, LCSW; Pat Gleason-Wynn, LCSW; Pam Grace, LCSW; Tina Green, LCSW; Helen Harris, LCSW; Miste Hower, LCSW; Sara Jacobson, LMSW; Jessica Johnson, LCSW; Alexandria Licea, LCSW; Nicole Marcum, LCSW; Jacklyn Padilla, LCSW; Mohit Prodhan, DSW Student; Barbara Rivas, LCSW; Elanderia Rowe, LCSW; Stacie McGee, LMSW-IPR; Laurie Stokes-Bell, LBSW; Ashley Stratton, LCSW; Rickeya Tatum, LMSW; Kate Thompson, LMSW; Jennifer Turner-Marks, LMSW; Natalie Vinzant, LMSW; Stephanie Washington, LCSW; Cole Watts, LCSW; Keena Zarcone, LMSW-IPR.
OTHER SUPPORT: Special thanks to the NASW Texas Board Members; the NASW Texas Branches; Stacie McGee, LMSW-IPR, for her support with the Stacie McGee Student Scholar Awards Program; NASW Texas Interns Daniel Bigler; Marina Dehoyos; Tristan Dufresne; Maya Morales; Deven Murray; Alyssa Rodriguez; Don Roedner; and members of NASW Texas for their ongoing support and attendance which make ours one of the largest and strongest conference programs in the profession.
NASW TEXAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT
Dr. Eboni L. Ceasar, PhD, LCSW-S eboni.ceasar@utexas.edu
VICE PRESIDENT
Angela Lutts, LCSW-S angie@embracinghopecounseling.com
2ND VICE PRESIDENT: BUDGET & PLANNING
Anthony “Tony” Cox, PhD, LCSW COLTonyCox@gmail.com
SECRETARY
Kelsey Blahnik, LCSW kelseyblahnik@theandwaytherapy.com
REGION 1
Cole Watts, LCSW, Interim icolewatts@gmail.com
REGION 2
Lauren Cantrell, LMSW, Interim lauren.cantrell@hsutx.edu
REGION 3
Totundra “Shay” Grays, PhD, LCSW-S shay1908@hotmail.com
REGION 4
Dominique Spigner, LCSW dominiquesbusiness@gmail.com
REGION 6
Amber Simpson, MBA-HCAD, MSW, LCSW-S amberlea.simpson1@gmail.com
REGION 7
Jennifer Vasquez, PhD, LCSW-S jvasquez@txstate.edu
REGION 9
Hunter Malone, LMSW, Interim hmalone@odessa.edu
REGION 10
Christian Salas, LMSW christiansalassw@gmail.com
REGION 11
Astrid Gandaria, LMSW astridgandaria@hotmail.com
MSW STUDENT REP
Cherie Johnson clj5731@mavs.uta.edu
BSW STUDENT REP Fantasha Allen fantasha92@gmail.com
EX-OFFICIO NOMINATIONS & LEADERSHIP IDENTIFICATION COMMITTEE CHAIR
Dr. Ashley Glover, DSW, LCSW, LCDC Ashley.glover08@yahoo.com
EX-OFFICIO CONFERENCE CHAIR
Michael Gianotti, LMSW-IPR, ACSW mgianottilmsw@gmail.com
SESSION DETAILS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025
Note: Recordings of live webinars will be available on-demand within 24 hours of the end of the session.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
100. Artificial Intelligence in Social Work: Ethical and Risk Management Challenges. Dr. Frederic G. Reamer. Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in social work to assess clients and provide them with information and resources; record clinical notes; identify systemic biases in the delivery of social services; provide social work education and clinical supervision; and predict social worker burnout and service outcomes, among other uses. This presentation will examine cutting-edge ethical and risk-management issues related to social workers’ use of AI related to informed consent and client autonomy; privacy and confidentiality; transparency; potential client misdiagnosis; client abandonment; client surveillance; plagiarism, dishonesty, fraud, and misrepresentation; algorithmic bias and unfairness; and use of evidence-based AI tools. (Ethics)
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
101. Conference Welcome + Presentation, Rising Tides Lift Hopes: Investing in the Future Through Social Work. NASW-TX Executive Director, Will Francis, LMSW. As Texas and the United States face threats from decreased funding for social services, increased attacks on historically oppressed populations, and a shrinking freedom to express and study equitable ideas, it is imperative that we advocate for the growth of social work. The values that underlie our profession are the seeds of democracy, and this session will provide an overview of why investing in social work is investing in a healthy future for all. This session is sponsored by Baylor University, Diana R. Garland School of Social Work.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
102. OPENING KEYNOTE: Reflections on the Texas Legislature and Social Work from Inside the Capitol. Texas House Representative Mary E. Gonzalez. This conversation with Rep. Mary Gonzalez (San Elizario) aims to create awareness regarding policy opportunities and threats for social work, the future political landscape, and how to strategize for change for ourselves and the communities we serve. Participants will gain a better understanding of how recent legislation impacts social work, explore macro issues across the country impacting social work, and learn how to ethically engage in advocacy.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Breakouts
103. Building Community Capacity to Prevent Fentanyl Poisonings in Youth. Kelly Clary, PhD, MSW; Anastasia Gumatay, MSW Student.
Accidental fentanyl poisonings underscore the urgent need for targeted prevention efforts. This session shares education, practice, and research strategies from the Fentanyl Education Support Training Awareness (FESTA) program, designed to prevent substance misuse among adolescents and sustain community capacity for prevention.
104. The Chameleon Effect: Adapting Suicide Prevention Frameworks for Complex Systems. Johanna Zollmann, LCSW. Discover how a military social worker built a lasting suicide prevention framework for a widely dispersed organization. Build competencies to adapt policies, foster collaboration, and use data to drive sustainable change. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
105. Behind the Claims Curtain: Demystifying Insurance Denials, Recoupments & Credentialing.
Dr. Kenshara Cravens-Knoxson, LMSW, CCM. Join us to acquire practical tools to navigate insurance hurdles with confidence. Attendees will learn how to prevent denials, manage recoupments, and streamline credentialing processes—turning administrative stress into strategic strength. Ideal for providers ready to take control of their reimbursement outcomes.
12:30 PM - 2:30 PM Breakouts
107. Working with Mixed-Status Families: Providing Culturally Responsive & Trauma-Informed Services.
Monica Romo, LCSW-S. You don’t want to miss this training designed to provide social workers working with mixed-status families with the tools and knowledge to provide culturally responsive and trauma-informed services. It will provide an understanding of the unique challenges and resilience factors that impact immigrant families, specifically those with mixed immigration statuses. This session will delve into the psychological, social, and legal implications for families navigating a complex and often precarious immigration system. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
108. Mindfulness in Clinical Social Work Supervision - Strategies and Practices. Amy Dell Carr, LCSW. Attendees will gain knowledge and experience in offering mindful practices in clinical social work settings, as well as the value of a personal self-care practice routine, specifically within clinical supervision, with special attention given to clinical supervision documentation. (Supervision)
109. Tools for Ethical Practice: Using TBRI to Navigate Dilemmas with Confidence. Dr. Angeliqueca Avery, LPC. Gain practical tools to apply Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBI) as a clinical framework to enhance ethical decision-making, strengthen therapeutic engagement, and promote practitioner well-being and resilience within high-demand environments. (Ethics)
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Breakouts
111. BHEC & Social Work Board Update & Discussion: Access to Care vs Public Protection. Sarah Faszholz, MBA. Get the latest updates on new rules and processes from the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners (SW Board.) Attendees will obtain knowledge on how to locate relevant laws and rules; identify common application errors, rule violations, and missed public comments, and understand BHEC/SW Board processes for applications, appeals, complaints, and rulemaking. Time for questions and answers will be allotted.
SESSION DETAILS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025
CONTINUED
112. Neurobiology Meets the 12 Steps: Enhancing Ethical Practice and Cultural Awareness in Recovery. Arlene Montgomery, MSSW, PhD, LCSW-S; Irek Banaczyk, LCDC, LCSW. Each of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) will be examined for possible neurobiological underpinnings. Participants will learn how to link cultural and/or ethical elements to related treatment concepts for self-regulation. (Ethics, Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
113. Parenting for Equity: Generational Healing as a Legacy of Wealth and Resilience. Nina Linda Ramos, LMSW. This session explores conscious and decolonized parenting, highlighting their role in fostering child development, intergenerational healing, and equity by reconnecting with ancestral traditions and challenging colonial influences in caregiving. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
115. Documentary Film, Arise Firebird. Arise Firebird celebrates the strength and empowerment of women and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) professionals in the workplace. It sheds light on the experiences of professional women of color who face challenges such as sexism and racism, and how they overcome these obstacles to find joy and strength in their professional lives. It aims to raise awareness about these issues and inspire both individuals and leaders to create more inclusive and supportive workplace. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
HOW TO GET YOUR CE CERTIFICATE
• After finishing all sessions, including those ondemand, select “Get CEUs!” in the top nav bar.
• Complete the online Attendance Verification Form by indicating the live webinars and on-demand sessions you watched. (Tip: Download the Session Tracker from the navigation bar in the conference platform to log your sessions and simplify this process.)
• Submit the form and your CE certificate link will be emailed to you automatically.
• Click the link in your email to download your certificate—and you’re done!
Schedule subject to change.
“Compassion + Action. What does that mean? Well, Compassion is the sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it. Action is the accomplishment of a thing usually over a period of time, in stages, or with the possibility of repetition. Put them together and you have Social Work which is Service, Social Justice, Dignity and Worth of the Person, Importance of the Human Relationship, Integrity, and Competence. THANK YOU for your compassion and taking action, but more importantly, THANK YOU you for being a social worker.”
- Michael P. Gianotti, LMSW-IPR, ACSW
2025 NASW Texas Conference Planning Committee Chair
SESSION DETAILS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025
Note: Recordings of live webinars will be available on-demand within 24 hours of the end of the session.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
200. Supporting LGBTQ+ Texans Amidst Rising Challenges—A Social Work Imperative. Brad Pritchett. The LGBTQ+ community in Texas faces relentless legislative attacks and rising discrimination. Social workers have the power to confront these challenges and offer real strategies for trauma-informed care, advocacy, and allyship to ensure every Texan is seen, supported, and celebrated, even in the toughest climates. Together, we can build bridges. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
201. Conference Morning Remarks + Presentation, Rebel With A Cause: Cultivating Connection in Competitive Spaces.
Mike Gianotti, LMSW-IPR, ACSW; Elizabeth Westbrook, LCSW, NPT-C.
With humor, heart, and honesty, Elizabeth Westbrook challenges social workers to rethink professionalism. This energizing webinar reframes lived experience and identity as strengths, not setbacks. Walk away empowered to lead boldly, practice authentically, and stop apologizing for being “too much” or “not enough.” Perfect for those ready to disrupt the norm.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Breakouts
202. Supervision Recalibrated: Ethical Application of Recent BHEC Changes. Libby Kay, MSSW, LCSW-S, ACSW; Linda Openshaw, DSW, LCSW-S, ACSW. Stay current on Texas supervision rules. This session covers recent updates to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) Rule 781.404 and outlines proper documentation practices to ensure compliance. Designed for social work supervisors navigating an evolving licensure landscape. (Supervision)
203. Advocating for Neurodiversity: Promoting Inclusion in Social Work Practice. Dr. Marya Wright, LCSW. This workshop provides social workers with an overview of neurodiversity and how to advocate for neurodivergent individuals within various systems. Participants will explore the intersectionality of neurodiversity with race, gender, and other identities. Through practical strategies, they will learn how to create more inclusive, equitable, and supportive environments for neurodivergent clients in practice, workplaces, and communities. The session will emphasize the role of social workers in advancing social justice for neurodivergent populations. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
204. The Biopsychosocial-Digital Model: Enhancing Clinical Insights in a Digitally Connected World. Alexis Speck Glennon, DSW, LCSW-R, LICSW.
The Biopsychosocial-Digital (BPSD) model expands traditional assessment by integrating digital factors. Join us to explore its foundations and applications, equipping social workers to address digital influences in clinical and macro practice. (Ethics)
Schedule subject to change.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
206. Policy, Practice & Progress: Legislative Outcomes from the 89th Texas Legislative Session. NASW Texas Government Relations Director, Bryan Mares, MSW.
Receive an in-depth overview of key legislative developments from the 89th Texas Legislative Session that directly impact the social work profession and the communities it serves. Attendees will learn about new laws related to workforce development, licensure, education support, and social services delivery. The presentation will also explore the broader policy trends shaping social work practice in Texas and offer insights into how professionals can engage in effective advocacy moving forward.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Breakouts
207. Hidden in Plain Sight: Addressing Human Trafficking in Rural Communities. Shanta Scott, MSW, DSW Candidate. Human trafficking is often concealed within rural Texas, going unnoticed. This workshop examines unique strategies to overcome obstacles and gain practical tools and best practices for effective intervention and support. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
208. Identifying Dominant Aggressors with TXADA: A Tool for Intimate Partner Violence Intervention. Lauri Jensen-Campbell, PhD.
Learn about the development of the TXADA tool to identify the dominant aggressor in intimate partner violence cases. This session informs social workers about how the TXADA uses trauma-informed strategies to assess power dynamics, coercive control, and key factors for accurate identification, improving safety and intervention outcomes.
209. In-Between Lands: Ethical and Culturally Responsive Mental Health Care for Arabic-Speaking and Muslim Clients. Einas Alabd, LMSW; Mikayla Jacob, LCSW-S, LISW. Explore ethical, trauma-informed care for Arabic-speaking and Muslim immigrant and second-generation clients navigating identity, belonging, and cultural tensions. This session blends lived experience and clinical insight to help social workers build trust, honor resilience, and hold compassionate space. (Ethics, Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Breakouts
211. The Trauma of Boys: Helping Boys Heal from Complex Trauma. Adam McCormick, PhD, MSW.
Gain an understanding of how trauma and masculinity intersect to shape boys’ emotional responses, coping mechanisms, and barriers to healing, offering trauma-informed strategies to help boys reconnect with authenticity, vulnerability, and emotional resilience. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
212. Understanding Loss: A Social Work Approach to Grief Support. Tami Micsky, DSW, LSW, MSSA, CT.
This workshop will educate participants about grief reactions to a broad spectrum of loss experiences. Participants will understand and use modern theories of grief to create interventions for individuals, families, or groups.
SESSION DETAILS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025 CONTINUED
213. Collaborative Whole-Person Care through Medical-Legal Partnership. Keegan Warren, JD, LLM.
Through case study, participants will evaluate two peer-reviewed social work-focused advocacy tools: the medical-legal partnership socio-ecological model and the NAM Integrating Social Work into the Delivery of Healthcare report.
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Breakouts
215. Putting the Family Pieces Back Together -Overview of Sexual Behavior Treatment.
Tonya Shankle, LCSW-S, LSOTP.
In this presentation, we will discuss the sexual behavior treatment process, family reunification, and community reintegration, as well as the risk and protective factors identified during treatment. Additionally, we will explore safety planning around these identified risks. The goal of treating adolescents with sexual behavior problems is to address and change the harmful thought patterns that lead to offending behavior, while also facilitating the reunification of the family. The clarification and reunification processes are essential components of an adolescent’s treatment program, helping the family understand how and why the situation occurred, and guiding them on the path of healing and recovery.
216. Bridging the Gap: School Social Workers of Color & Racial Disparities in Discipline. Dr. Blanca Sanchez McGee, LCSW-S; Jasmine Gaines, LCSW.
Discover ways school social workers of color can address racial disparities in discipline through advocacy, restorative practices, and policy reform, aligning with the NASW Code of Ethics and Standards for School Social Work Practice. (Ethics, Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
217. Women’s Rights in the Workplace: Supporting Supervisees. Jennifer Vasquez, PhD, LCSW-S; Alexa Smith-Osborne, PhD, LCSW-S, ACSW; Marta Mercado Sierra, PhD. NASW Texas Women’s Rights Committee provides strategies for LCSWs to support supervisees in navigating workplace challenges, advocating for female professionals, addressing sexism, and promoting inclusion through allyship and activism. (Supervision, Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM ROUND TABLES
NOTE: Select the “Round Tables” link in the top nav bar to navigate to the Round Tables page. System limits attendance to 40 participants. These informal discussions cannot be recorded, per the online event production team.
RT1. Round Table: Group Leader Network Meeting. Tee Tyler, PhD, LCSW; Rene Aguilar, LMSW. Join us to connect with fellow social workers who also value group work. We will engage in a collective conversation about advocating for group work within the social work profession. Note: This session is informational only. CEUs are not available.
Schedule subject to change.
RT2. Round Table: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Practice Interactive Discussion. Laura Hernandez Gold, LCSW-S; Denetria Brooks-James, DSW, LMSW; Michael Daley, PhD, LMSW-AP, ACSW; Whitney Callari. Join NASW Texas Ethics Committee Members for an engaging, collaborative discussion. Bring your questions! This session will offer a safe space to explore real-world ethical challenges, share perspectives, and deepen your understanding of professional standards. (Ethics)
RT3. Round Table: Why Should Social Workers Be Concerned About a Changing Environment? Facilitated by Shannon Thomas, LCSW-S; Mohit Prodhan.
Join us to discuss, learn, collaborate, and create an action plan to engage statewide and nationally as Texas EcoSocial workers.
RT4. Round Table: Ethics, Risk, and Resistance-Practicing LGBTQ+ Affirmation in Hostile and Abusive Systems. Steven L. Parks, LCSW-S, MBA, RPT-Stm; Kelly Marshall, BSW, C-IAYT; Rynn Myles, BSW.
Join us for an engaging and collaborative discussion about ethical dilemmas, professional risks, and moral courage required when affirming LGBTQ+ clients in hostile or non-affirming institutions. Participants will discuss the social worker’s responsibility to move beyond individual affirmation toward systems-level advocacy that advances LGBTQ+ rights, safety, and dignity. Together, we will share strategies for navigating challenging environments while upholding the NASW Code of Ethics. (Ethics)
RT5. Round Table: Let’s Talk NASW Membership!
Join us for an open, interactive chat with NASW Texas Director of Member Engagement and the Membership and Leadership Engagement Committee (MLEC). This is your chance to ask questions about membership, learn about opportunities to get more involved, and discover how joining a committee or volunteering for leadership can help you grow professionally and make an impact. Not a member yet? Come connect with us and find your place in the NASW-TX community! Note: This session is informational only. CEUs are not available.
7:00 PM (In-person event in Houston)
Mix, mingle, and make some noise! The NASW Houston Branch and The Mental Wellness Collective are hosting a networking event and sing-along at Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar, 1201 Fannin, Suite 310, Houston, Texas. More info.
SESSION DETAILS
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2025
Note: Recordings of live webinars will be available on-demand within 24 hours of the end of the session.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
301. Closing Keynote, Ethics and Boundaries: Practicing SelfCare in an Era of Moral Distress. Sheng Lee Yang, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C.
In today’s complex and demanding human services landscape, social workers often find themselves navigating ethical dilemmas and encountering situations that can lead to moral distress. This training is designed to equip social workers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to address these ethical challenges while prioritizing their own well-being. Guidance on maintaining healthy boundaries in client interactions, organizational dynamics, and professional relationships will be shared. Participants will also learn how to navigate ethical dilemmas with integrity and compassion, while safeguarding their own mental health. This session is sponsored by Texas A&M University-Central Texas, Department of Social Work. (Ethics)
9:15 AM - 9:30 AM
302. Conference Closing Remarks. 2026 NASW Texas Conference Chair, Dr. Ciera T. Cooper, LCSW-S. Don’t miss this morning’s wrap-up! Get a quick overview of today’s sessions, find out how to receive your conference CE certificate, and listen for your name when the “It Pays to be a Member” Grand Prize Drawing and Gamification contest winners are announced.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
303. Lost in Translation: Honoring Culture in Advance Care Planning. Jennifer Barton, LCSW. Learn how to navigate cultural differences in decision-making by contrasting Western healthcare with collective decision-making models. You will gain tools to support inclusive, value-aligned advance care planning that honors patients’ end-of-life goals and deepens your cultural humility and effectiveness. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
304. Next-Gen Supervision: Tech Tools for Ethical Mentorship and Communications in Virtual Settings. Stephanie Washington, EdD, LCSW-S.
Reimagine supervision with technology! This session equips social work and field education supervisors with ethical, innovative strategies to enhance mentorship, communication, and reflection in virtual and hybrid settings, supporting emerging professionals effectively. (Supervision, Ethics)
305. Staying Safe in Social Work: A Guide to Personal and Professional Security. Kiva Harper, LCSW-S. This workshop will aid social workers in the development of essential safety strategies, risk assessment skills, and advocacy tools to prevent workplace violence, enhance personal security, and promote safer organizational policies using recent research and best practices.
Schedule subject to change.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
307. Building Futures: How Education and Housing Unlock Opportunities. Marina Dewberry, LMSW. Enhance your understanding of youth homelessness, implement effective interventions, and develop cultural competency skills to support diverse, at-risk youth populations in housing insecurity. (Human Populations, formerly “Cultural Competency”)
308. Developing Your Leadership Skills! Empowering Social Workers for Success. Sandi Morse, LCSW.
Utilize the NASW Code of Ethics to foster essential leadership skills including strategic thinking, team management, and organizational awareness to prepare yourself to drive innovation, improve patient care, and lead effectively in complex health systems.
309. Enhancing Student Athlete Mental Wellness: Social Work Strategies & Ethics. Katisha Chaney, LMSW, LCDC-I. Don’t miss this in-depth exploration of the mental health challenges of student athletes, emphasizing evidence-based interventions, ethical considerations, and social work strategies to enhance resilience, performance, and overall well-being in academic and athletic environments. (Ethics)
BONUS SESSIONS
NOTE: Bonus sessions are available on-demand beginning Thursday, October 16, 8:00 AM – Friday, November 14, 11:59 PM.
VL1. 2025 Stacie McGee Student Scholar Award Presentations. Stacie McGee, LMSW-IPR; Obi Onyegesi, LMSW, LCDC; Laura Aguilera; Alberto Martinez, IV. Watch the 2025 Stacie McGee Student Scholar Award Recipients— Alberto Martinez, IV (BSW), Laura Aguilera (MSW), and Obi Onyegesi, LMSW, LCDC (PhD)—share the powerful ideas that earned them top honors in this on-demand session. From Martinez’s Critical Theory Analysis: Conflict Theory (Critical Analysis) to Aguilera’s Community Advocacy Project (Reflective Essay) and Onyegesi’s EcoSocial Theory: A Multilevel Approach to Health Disparities in Black Communities (Theoretical Paper), you’ll gain fresh perspectives and inspiring insights from the next generation of social work leaders. Facilitated by Stacie McGee, LMSW-IPR. (1 CEU)
VL2. Interview with Arise Firebird Director. Join Dr. Lindsey Pollock in conversation with producer Jimi Okubanjo on Arise Firebird, the acclaimed documentary exposing workplace trauma for women of color. (1 CEU)
VL3. Texas Natural Disasters and EcoSocial Work. Shannon Thomas, LCSW-S; Mohit Prodhan; Dr. Simeiqi He; Dr. Sudershan Pasupuleti; Yvette Lopez. Explore EcoSocial Work and its relevance in Texas as climate instability and natural disasters affect safety, health, and well-being. Learn the connections between social justice, environmental change, and marginalized populations, and gain advocacy strategies to help communities build resilience and navigate environmental crises. (1 CEU)
2025 Stacie McGee Student Scholar Award Winners:
BSW-Level: Alberto Martinez, IV
Texas A&M University Kingsville
(Critical Analysis) Critical Theory Analysis: Conflict Theory
MSW-Level: Laura Aguilera
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (Reflective Essay) Community Advocacy Project
PhD-Level: Obi Onyegesi, LMSW, LCDC
The University of Texas at Austin (Theoretical Paper) EcoSocial Theory:
A Multilevel Approach to Health Disparities in Black Communities
Each of the winners was the recipient of a $300 prize and a registration to this year’s conference. Watch these future social work leaders share highlights of their powerful ideas that earned them top honors in the “Bonus” on-demand session, VL1. 2025 Stacie McGee Student Scholar Award Presentations, facilitated by Stacie McGee, LMSW-IPR.
50 YEAR MEMBERS
Reva Allen
John Bartley
Richard Bigelow
Judy Bowen
Dixie Camp
Catherine Cofer
Margery Engel Loeb
25 YEAR MEMBERS
Donna Amtsberg
Tracy Barney
Susan Cason-Parks
Andrew Cruz
April DeLeon
Kesha Diodato
Robert Dole
Karen Dorrier
Michael Gianotti
Cassandra Gilbert
Rebecca Gomez
Claydeen Harrell
Daniel King
Joy Lock
Celynn McDonald-Jay
Iris Newman
Samuel Nunez
Claudia Rappaport
Cheryl Verlander
Carolyn Williams
Rosalie Wilson
Martin Woodard
Jennifer Helm
Merrie Ingalls-Webb
Jaime Jones
Wahlia Jones-Woolley
Shirley Joseph-Davisam
Telawna Kirbie
Raquel Lauretano
Annette Ledezma
Darlene Maddox-Evans
Carol Marsh
Annette Martinez
Cindi Mazuca
Myron Meade
Mardell Reising
Barbara Rivas
Rebecca Salazar
Kari Showers
Jennifer Sowinski
Kristene Stewart
Laura Vaughn
Susan Wade
Anne Wakefield
William Wilcox
2025 CHAPTER AWARD RECIPIENTS
2025 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
DR. DEBRA J. WOODY, LCSW
Dr. Debra Woody, PhD, LCSW, stands as a towering figure in the field of social work, whose career spans over four decades of transformative leadership, scholarship, and service. A graduate of Texas Christian University, Columbia University, and Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Woody has dedicated her life to advancing mental health, substance use treatment, and social justice through education and community engagement.
At the University of Texas at Arlington, Dr. Woody has held numerous leadership roles, including Interim Dean, Senior Associate Dean, and Director of the Center for Addiction and Recovery Studies (CARS). Under her guidance, CARS secured over $10 million in external funding, providing vital services to vulnerable populations and hands-on training for hundreds of students. Her visionary work in substance abuse prevention and mental health has shaped policy, practice, and research across Texas.
Dr. Woody’s legacy includes rebuilding UTA’s PhD program into a nationally recognized full-time model, developing student support centers, and leading diversity initiatives that resulted in the creation of the university’s Diversity Certificate and Minor programs. Her commitment to equity and inclusion has empowered countless students and faculty, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
A prolific scholar and mentor, Dr. Woody has authored numerous publications and chaired dozens of dissertations, always centering the dignity and worth of individuals. Her work has earned national recognition, including the CSWE Faculty Service and Leadership Award.
Dr. Woody embodies the core values of social work—integrity, compassion, and advocacy. Her career is a testament to the power of education, the importance of representation, and the enduring impact of servant leadership. The NASW Texas Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates not just her accomplishments, but the lives she has uplifted and the future she continues to shape.
Nominated by the North Central Texas - Fort Worth Area Branch.
2025 CHAPTER AWARD RECIPIENTS
2025 SOCIAL WORKER OF THE YEAR LAURIE COOK HEFFRON, PHD, LMSW
Dr. Laurie Cook Heffron is a nationally recognized scholar, educator, and advocate whose work has transformed the landscape of social work practice, particularly in the areas of forced migration, gender-based violence, and human trafficking. As Associate Professor and Social Work Program Director at St. Edward’s University, Dr. Cook Heffron has empowered countless students, especially first-generation and marginalized learners, through mentorship, collaborative research, and traumainformed education.
Her scholarship bridges theory and practice, centering the voices of immigrant survivors and advancing policies that promote dignity and justice. She has authored the only textbook exclusively focused on human trafficking for social workers, and her research has shaped national conversations on immigration, violence, and systemic reform.
Beyond academia, Dr. Cook Heffron provides expert witness testimony in immigration cases, conducts psychosocial assessments for survivors seeking legal protection, and trains legal and health professionals in trauma-informed care. Her interdisciplinary collaborations have led to groundbreaking models of integrated legalsocial work advocacy, directly impacting the lives of migrant women and children.
As a department chair and community leader, she fosters inclusive, feminist leadership rooted in shared power and mutual respect. Her tireless commitment to justice, mentorship, and community engagement exemplifies the highest ideals of the profession.
2025 CHAPTER AWARD RECIPIENTS
2025 SOCIAL WORK STUDENT OF THE YEAR ASHLEY-ANNETTE BORGES
Ashley-Annette Borges exemplifies the heart, intellect, and spirit of the social work profession. A military spouse, mother of four, and first-generation college student, Ashley-Annette has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA while pursuing her Bachelor of Behavioral Science in Social Work at Hardin-Simmons University. Her journey is marked by resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Ashley-Annette’s academic excellence is matched by her dynamic leadership. She serves as Vice President of the HSU Social Work Club, Secretary of the Sigma Beta Chapter of Phi Alpha Honor Society, and a Steering Committee member for the NASW West Texas Branch. Her advocacy spans critical issues including men’s mental health, elder care, and healthcare access for underserved populations.
Her research is bold and impactful. Ashley-Annette presented findings on women’s healthcare access to Texas legislative staff, developed strategies to improve geriatric mental health for Mesa Springs Healthcare Center, and created a community asset map to address service gaps for veterans in Abilene. Her work led to campus-wide initiatives like the Men’s Mental Health Panel, fostering dialogue and destigmatization.
In her practicum at Windcrest Nursing and Rehab, Ashley-Annette has earned praise for her professionalism, empathy, and teamwork. She has already passed the bachelor’s licensing exam months ahead of graduation, demonstrating her readiness to serve.
Ashley-Annette also leads the I Ka Mana Mau Polynesian Dance Group, using traditional dance as a therapeutic and educational tool in long-term care settings, promoting cultural understanding and intergenerational healing.
Ashley-Annette Borges is not just a student, she is a changemaker. Her lived experience, academic rigor, and fearless advocacy make her a shining example of social work in action. The NASW Texas Social Work Student of the Year Award honors her extraordinary contributions and the promise of a future shaped by her leadership.
Nominated by the West Central Texas Branch.
2025 CHAPTER AWARD RECIPIENTS
2025 PUBLIC CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
ZENOBIA T. LAI
Zenobia Lai is a fearless advocate, visionary leader, and tireless champion for immigrant rights whose work has transformed lives and systems across Texas and beyond. As Executive Director of the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, Zenobia leads a coalition of over 30 organizations, driving innovative, cross-sector solutions to advance equity, inclusion, and justice for immigrant communities.
Her career spans decades of groundbreaking legal advocacy, from directing one of the largest immigration legal services programs in Texas at Catholic Charities to shaping national policy through litigation, education, and coalition-building. Zenobia’s leadership has secured millions in public-private funding to expand legal representation, healthcare access, and citizenship support for low-income immigrants. Her initiatives, like the Immigrant Resource Hotline and Connect for Healthcare have become lifelines for thousands navigating complex systems. Zenobia’s impact is deeply personal. As an immigrant herself, she brings lived experience to every policy table and courtroom, speaking truth to power with grace and conviction. Her work embodies the core values of social work, dignity, justice, and the power of human relationships, even though she is not a social worker by title. She educates, empowers, and uplifts, building bridges where others see barriers.
From her early days as a human rights journalist in Hong Kong to her leadership in Boston, Washington, Dc, and Houston, Zenobia has consistently challenged injustice and inspired change. Her legacy includes mentoring future advocates, preserving affordable housing, and defending the rights of survivors, children, and families. Zenobia Lai is more than a public citizen, she is a force for good. Her principled leadership, strategic brilliance, and unwavering compassion make her a profoundly deserving recipient of the 2025 NASW Texas Public Citizen of the Year Award.
Nominated by the Houston Branch.
NASW TEXAS VIRTUAL CONFERENCE MEMBERSHIP RAFFLES
Membership Raffle
All current NASW members attending the virtual conference are automatically entered into a daily drawing for a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Winners will be announced each morning!
New Members Raffle
Join NASW during the conference and enter for a chance to win one of three $50 Amazon Gift Cards. To enter: Email your membership invoice to Taylor Brewer Sambrano at tsambrano.naswtx@ socialworkers.org by Monday, October 20th. The invoice must be dated during the conference (October 16–18). Winners will be contacted the week after the conference.
Grand Prize Winner
Open to current NASW members. Submit a short video answering one of our fun prompts below for a chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card plus an NASW Texas Virtual Conference t-shirt. This is a great opportunity to get creative, share your story, and show off your NASW pride! All members who submit a video will be entered into the drawing. Visit the NASW Membership Booth in the Exhibit Hall to participate.
Video Prompts:
• Why I’m proud to be an NASW member.
• How NASW has helped me grow professionally.
• Why I encourage others to join NASW.
2025 CHAPTER AWARD RECIPIENTS
2025 PUBLIC ELECTED OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR JUDGE LINA HIDALGO
Judge Lina Hidalgo, Harris County’s first female County Judge and a trailblazing public servant, is honored as the 2025 NASW Texas Public Elected Official of the Year for her courageous leadership and unwavering commitment to equity, justice, and community well-being.
Since taking office in 2019, Judge Hidalgo has redefined what it means to lead with compassion and integrity. Overseeing a $4.3 billion budget and serving more than 4.7 million residents, she has championed transformative initiatives in public health, criminal justice reform, mental health access, early childhood development, and environmental resilience. Her equitable response to the COVID-19 pandemic ensured that historically underserved communities received critical resources, earning her national recognition including the John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award and TIME Magazine’s 100 Next list.
Judge Hidalgo’s advocacy extends beyond crisis response. She has led efforts to reform Harris County’s bail system, expand mental health services, and invest in early childhood education. Her commitment to voting rights and democratic access has positioned her as a fearless defender of civic engagement, even in the face of political opposition.
Her leadership style mirrors the core values of the social work profession: service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, and the importance of human relationships. She empowers social workers and community advocates to navigate systems and uplift vulnerable populations, modeling transparency, accountability, and visionary governance.
Judge Hidalgo’s impact is felt not only in policy but in the lives she touches. Her decision to publicly prioritize her own mental health further destigmatized care and inspired others to seek support. She is a powerful ally in the pursuit of social change and a beacon of ethical public service.
Nominated by the Houston Branch.
SOCIAL WORKER NETWORKING EVENT
Hosted by the NASW Houston Branch and the Mental Wellness Collective
Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar 1201 Fannin Street, Suite 310, Houston
Friday, October 17
7pm - Networking 8pm - Enjoy the show!
$15 donation covers the cost of your ticket. Only 40 spots available. Drinks available for individual purchase.
Click here to register.
For more information, email connect@the-mwc.org.
2025 CHAPTER AWARD RECIPIENTS
2025 MEDIA AWARD
EDDIE ROBINSON
Eddie Robinson, host of the acclaimed NPR program I SEE U, is the 2025 NASW Texas Media Award honoree for his powerful contributions to public discourse and his unwavering commitment to social justice through ethical journalism.
With over two decades of experience in radio, television, and digital media, Eddie has built a career rooted in storytelling that uplifts marginalized voices and deepens public understanding of complex social issues. I SEE U is more than a show, it is a platform for empathy, healing, and transformation. Each episode explores cultural identity, systemic inequality, and resilience, aligning closely with the values of the social work profession.
Eddie’s work consistently amplifies the lived experiences of individuals and communities often overlooked in mainstream media. He brings social workers into the conversation as trusted experts, highlighting their role in shaping policy, supporting vulnerable populations, and fostering community well-being. His programming reflects the NASW Code of Ethics by promoting dignity, advancing human rights, and encouraging compassionate engagement.
Now serving as General Manager of KPVU-FM and Professor of Communications and Advertising at Prairie View A&M University, Eddie continues to mentor the next generation of media professionals. His leadership bridges academia and public service, modeling integrity, curiosity, and cultural humility.
Eddie Robinson’s media legacy is one of courage, compassion, and clarity. He informs without exploiting, challenges without dividing, and uplifts without simplifying. For his extraordinary impact on public awareness, his dedication to ethical storytelling, and his deep alignment with the mission of social work, Eddie Robinson is a profoundly deserving recipient of the NASW Texas Media Award.
Nominated by the Houston Branch.
NASW PIONEERS
DAVID STERLING HOGAN, LCSW-S
David Hogan, LCSW-S, has served as a forensic social worker in Dallas and its surrounding communities for over forty years. Credit is due for his steadfast, determined, and successful efforts to improve the treatment of disenfranchised citizens.
Hogan currently serves as Clinical Director of the Dallas County Deflection Center (DCDC), a program that diverts individuals charged with low-level misdemeanors who have substance use disorders and/or mental illness from jail into coordinated, multi-tiered treatment. DCDC provides residential and outpatient services, housing support, and casework follow-up. Hogan was instrumental in both the development and execution of this program, which may be seen as the culmination of his decades of service.
His career began in 1978 with the Dallas Police Department’s First Offender Program, where he worked as a youth and family counselor providing direct services to adolescents and parents while revising curriculum to align with social work values.
In 1985, Hogan transferred to the Dallas Police Social Services Unit, which served clients unable to access assistance due to frailty, lack of transportation, or disability. Through his advocacy and leadership, the unit evolved into the Dallas Police Department (DPD) Crisis Intervention Unit. In this role, Hogan developed programs to assist individuals with mental illness in accessing treatment and emergency housing. He trained caseworkers on the Mental Illness Warrant process, field safety, and disaster response. He also created in-service mental health training for police officers, assisted on calls involving high-risk mentally ill and suicidal clients, and collaborated with the DPD Criminal Intelligence Unit, U.S. Capitol Police, and U.S. Secret Service in managing high-risk cases.
Beginning with Hurricane Katrina and continuing during Hurricanes Rita, Gustav, Ike, and Harvey, Hogan led efforts to provide coordinated mental health and substance abuse responses. He served on the Katrina Taskforce, conducting post-disaster needs assessments, crisis counseling, and housing support for the large influx of evacuees arriving in Dallas.
In 2008, he created and led the first multidisciplinary City of Dallas Boarding Home Inspection Team, addressing safety issues, mental health needs, code violations, and substandard living conditions.
Hogan retired from the Dallas Police Department in 2018. That same year, he was appointed to the Dallas Metrocare Board of Trustees, and in 2020, he was named Clinical Director of the Dallas County Deflection Center. In recent years, Hogan has also served as a consultant to police departments in surrounding communities, supporting their efforts to integrate professional social workers into law enforcement services.
NASW PIONEERS
D. LYNN JACKSON, PHD, MSW
D. Lynn Jackson, PhD, MSW, has made groundbreaking contributions to reproductive rights advocacy, particularly in expanding access to abortion services for marginalized women, women of color, and young women. Her work began shortly after earning her MSW in 1989, when she joined the local board of Planned Parenthood. Recognizing the financial barriers to abortion, she co-founded the Women’s Organization for Medical Emergency Needs (WOMEN), one of the first nonprofit organizations in Florida dedicated to raising funds and providing financial assistance for abortion services. At the time, only one other agency in Florida—and fewer than 40 nationwide—offered similar help.
In 1992, Dr. Jackson expanded her advocacy by joining the Board of Directors of the National Network of Abortion Funds (NNAF), a new nonprofit addressing financial and systemic barriers to abortion access. She helped build a nationwide network of abortion funds, providing training and fundraising support to new initiatives while actively opposing restrictive legislation. She also spearheaded the creation of a national abortion fund that gave additional resources to local funds unable to meet overwhelming demand.
Beyond administrative leadership, Dr. Jackson personally managed casework for 13 years, providing funding and support to abortion patients five days a week. Her expertise in case management led to standardized protocols for an NNAF fund operating nationwide. In 2006, her education and advocacy efforts at a national meeting helped secure a multimillion-dollar foundation grant to support abortion services for low-income women for the next decade.
Dr. Jackson also advanced research on abortion accessibility. Collaborating with Dr. Gretchen Ely and Dr. Travis Hale, she analyzed data gathered during her tenure as NNAF’s national case manager. This research, published in multiple peer-reviewed journals, highlighted the financial and logistical barriers women face in accessing abortion services and expanded the social work profession’s understanding of reproductive justice.
After relocating to Texas, Dr. Jackson continued her advocacy by joining the Texas Equal Access (TEA) Fund, where she developed protocols, trained volunteers, and supervised hotline operations. She also testified before the Texas Legislature, speaking against restrictive abortion laws and raising awareness of the challenges faced by women seeking reproductive healthcare.
Dr. Jackson’s trailblazing contributions extend far beyond organizational leadership. Her impact lies in shaping policy, raising awareness, and increasing access to reproductive services for marginalized women—especially women of color and young women—who are most affected by lack of access. By co-founding WOMEN, she filled a critical gap in Florida, providing assistance when few other organizations existed. Her leadership with NNAF fueled the growth of a nationwide network that dramatically increased resources for women in need. Her social work expertise was central to developing case management protocols and creating a national abortion fund that directly helped women who might otherwise have been unable to access abortion care.
Finally, her research revealed how financial and policy barriers continued to prevent women from accessing legal abortion services. By applying a social justice lens, Dr. Jackson brought vital insights into the reproductive rights conversation from a social work perspective.
NASW PIONEERS
DR. JOHN S. MCNEIL (1927-2023)
John S. McNeil (1927-2023), a social work leader in the military and academia, made pioneering contributions in the United States Air Force and in social work research. His inclusion in the NASW Social Work Pioneers is long overdue.
During his 45-plus years as a social worker, Dr. McNeil served in the Air Force for 25 years and in academia for 20. He achieved the rank of Colonel and was one of the only Black men of his generation to serve as a national leader and be on a short list for promotion to General.
He made national and international contributions to the development of social work and mental health services, including oversight of 150 master’s- and doctoral-level social workers across 80 installations worldwide. His leadership scaled best practices that benefitted countless service members.
In 1976, the Air Force named him Social Worker of the Decade. He was appointed five times as Chief of Social Work, directing services at major installations and hospitals in the U.S. and Germany. These trailblazing contributions alone warrant NASW Pioneer recognition.
After retiring from the Air Force, Dr. McNeil pursued a 20-year academic career. From 1978 to 1991, he taught at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), and from 1991 until his retirement in 1998, at the University of Texas at Austin (UT-Austin), where he held the Louis and Ann Wolens Chair in Gerontology.
He made important contributions to research, leadership, and service. He co-chaired NASW’s Health/Mental Health Specialty Group’s first megaconference, chaired the Texas Chapter’s Committee on Inquiry, and served on the editorial board of the Journal of Multicultural Social Work.
At UTA, he directed the Ph.D. program, served as Acting Dean, helped lead a five-year NIMH grant in minority aging, and directed the Community Services Clinic. With colleague Dr. Jeanne Deschner, he developed a groundbreaking Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) intervention for interpersonal violence. Research showed 85% of families completing the program remained free of further violence for months. Results were published in the Journal of Family Violence and widely disseminated through trainings and manuals.
At UT-Austin, Dr. McNeil focused on gerontology, family violence, and evidence-based treatment. He supervised dissertations, mentored future leaders, and championed family-based psychoeducation for persistent mental disorders. With students, he co-authored an influential article in Families in Society (1991) urging adoption of family psychoeducation alongside ecological approaches.
Throughout his career, he mentored many students who became leaders, including Dr. Beth Pomeroy, Editor-inChief of Social Work from 2009 to 2013.
I also benefited from his mentorship, first as an MSW student and later as a Ph.D. student under his supervision. He guided my first publications, supported my entry into academia, and continued to mentor me as a colleague. His wisdom, humor, and generosity profoundly shaped my life.
Through his mentorship of doctoral students and faculty, Dr. McNeil left a lasting legacy. Several of his students and mentees, including myself, are now NASW Pioneers. No one is more deserving of this recognition than Col. Dr. John S. McNeil.
NASW PIONEERS
DAVID WILLIAM SPRINGER, PHD, LCSW
Dr. Springer began his career as a clinical social worker serving adolescents in psychiatric hospitals and alternative schools. After earning his MSW and PhD from Florida State University, he joined the faculty of The University of Texas at Austin in 1997, where he spent over 25 years in progressive leadership roles:
• Director, RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service, LBJ School of Public Affairs
• Interim Dean & Associate Dean, LBJ School of Public Affairs
• Associate Dean & Graduate Advisor, Steve Hicks School of Social Work
• Co-Founder, Inter-American Institute for Youth Justice
Notably, Dr. Springer is one of the few social workers in the nation to have held senior leadership roles across both schools of social work and public policy at a major Research I university. His leadership bridged disciplines and elevated the visibility of social work within public policy education.
Dr. Springer is also an award-winning educator. At UT Austin, he taught both undergraduate and graduate courses—including the popular undergraduate seminar Designing a Happy and Meaningful Life and the graduate seminar The Architecture of Leadership. His impact as a teacher and mentor spans hundreds of students across disciplines.
EXHIBITOR DETAILS
CARROLL COLLEGE
Lindsey Palagi
406-490-5560
https://www.carroll.edu/academics/program-finder/mastersocial-work
Carroll College’s online Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed to prepare professional social workers to serve individuals, families, groups, and communities with competence, compassion, and integrity. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), our clinically focused curriculum emphasizes trauma-informed / resiliencefocused care, evidence-based practices, and culturally responsive approaches to meeting the needs of diverse and underserved populations. Carroll’s MSW program offers flexibility for working professionals while maintaining a strong sense of community through interactive courses, small class sizes, and personalized faculty support. Students benefit from robust field education experiences, and partnerships with community agencies across Montana and beyond. Our program offers a 60-credit traditional track and a 30-credit advanced standing option for students with a CSWEaccredited BSW.
HHSC EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION
Lindy Warner
512-424-6580
https://hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/early-childhoodintervention-services
Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is a statewide program within the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for families with children birth up to age 3, with developmental delays, disabilities or certain medical diagnoses that may impact development. ECI services support families as they learn how to help their children grow and learn.
MINDFULU
INSTITUTE
Darlene Sousa
https://mindfulu.institute/
MindfulU Institute is an international social enterprise dedicated to the expansion of neurodiversity, cultural, and gender affirming care through professional development for behavioral health providers, improving the quality of life for clinicians and the community. We are a neurodivergent professional collective located across several continents.
NASW ASSURANCE SERVICES, INC.
Kerith Adams
301-668-4274
www.naswassurance.org/tx25
NASW Assurance Services (ASI) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NASW and exists to manage social worker insurance programs with our policyholders’ best interests in mind. We work hard to be a socially responsible organization dedicated to improving the lives of social workers. In all our insurance products, we offer excellent value: the best possible product to meet the specific needs of social workers at the most competitive group rates. ASI understands the abundant rewards of helping others. We also understand the importance of assessing and minimizing risk when working in today’s litigious society.
NASW MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND SERVICES
NASW Member Services
800-742-4089
https://www.socialworkers.org/Membership
The National Association of Social Workers Texas Chapter (NASW-TX) empowers social workers through professional development, advocacy, and community. With over 4,300 members, a registered lobbyist, and a presence across the state, we are the leading voice for social work in Texas. Members gain access to a nationwide professional network and opportunities to grow at every stage of their career. Visit our booth to learn more, get involved, and join NASW-TX today!
QMEDIC
Brooke Miller
515-777-9662
https://qmedichealth.com/
QMedic provides proactive personal emergency response solutions that empower social workers to keep clients safe, connected, and independent. Our in-home and mobile devices include fall detection, GPS, and 24/7 monitoring, with no installation or setup fees. With multilingual support and unique features like voice-activated Blink app and companion pets, QMedic goes beyond emergency response to deliver human-centered care that reduces isolation and improves quality of life.
TEXAS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Sarah Faszholz
512-305-7700
www.bhec.texas.gov
The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (“Council”) was created by the 86th Legislature in 2019 following consecutive reviews of its member boards by the Sunset Advisory Commission. The Council consists of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists, Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, and the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners. The Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners is the state board that licenses and regulates Social Workers in Texas.
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON (PREMIER SPONSOR)
Antwan Williams
817-272-3181
uta.edu/ssw
Ranked in the Top 13% of Social Work programs throughout the nation by US News & World Report, the School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Arlington offers four distinct social work programs that prepare social work professionals at all levels to make lasting impacts that help communities and individuals thrive. Now offering BSW, MSW, PhD, and DSW degrees for all aspiring Change makers.
EXHIBITOR DETAILS
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK
Dante Vargas
512-741-9819
To educate and inspire future social work leaders who are committed to advancing society through research, education, advocacy and practice. We strive to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and in the world through innovative teaching, impactful scholarship, and compassionate service.
TULANE SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK
Amy Trainor
504-882-7846
tssw.tulane.edu
Tulane University School of Social Work (TSSW) is the oldest school of social work in the South and the fifth oldest in the nation. Nestled in the vibrant and diverse city of New Orleans, TSSW offers nationally ranked MSW and DSW degrees, as well as the innovative Master of Science in Disaster Resilience Leadership and several dual degree options, each designed to accommodate students through unique online, on-ground, or accelerated options.
UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON GRADUATE COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORK (PREMIER SPONSOR)
Anna Hunter
713-743-0207
https://www.uh.edu/socialwork
The University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, through exceptional education, innovative research, and meaningful community engagement, prepares diverse leaders in practice and research to address complex challenges. Our students’ preparation will enable them to achieve sustainable social, racial, economic, environmental, and political justice, locally and globally in the social work profession.
UNIVERSITY
OF TEXAS RIO GRANDE VALLEY SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK
Griselda Vasquez
956-665-3575
https://www.utrgv.edu/socialwork/
The UTRGV School of Social Work empowers future social workers through rigorous academics, education and a strong commitment to children and families with trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices. We cultivate leadership and workforce readiness to meet the evolving needs of communities nationwide.
UPBRING (PREMIER SPONSOR)
Luis Zavala
512-459-1000
https://uprbing.org
Abuse insults our humanity and it is our mission to break that cycle. Upbring is a Texas-wide organization implementing generational innovation to advance child well-being. We are the leaders in delivering a broad spectrum of liferestoring services that elevate and heal human beings in our communities. Intent on shifting perspectives and re-imagining current systems, our work secures a future free from the damages of abuse.
ADVANCING CHILD WELLBEING
ABOUT UPBRING
For nearly 150 years, Upbring has been a leader in child wellbeing— providing safety, healing and hope through foster care, education and therapeutic services. Each year, at more than 80 locations across Texas, we serve more than 14,000 children through programs that prioritize their wellbeing.
Upbring is advancing beyond intervention toward proactive, place-based prevention. Guided by our Child Wellbeing Trifecta—child, family and community—we recognize that true wellbeing is interdependent and only possible when all three thrive together. Through Child Wellbeing Zones, we’re working alongside communities to prevent abuse before it happens, strengthen families before they’re in crisis and build neighborhoods where every child has the chance to thrive.
