Western New England University held its 34th Annual Regional Social Work Conference on Wednesday, May 25, across the University campus. The event featured more than 40 workshops designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of social workers and human services professionals of all experience levels. Presentations focused on important issues facing social work professionals when dealing with children and families, the elderly, mental health, substance abuse, multicultural issues, and personal development.
Assistant professor at Springfield College School of Social Work, Dr. Anthony C. Hill, delivered a powerful keynote presentation titled, “Strength of the Journey for Social Workers and Helping Professionals.” Dr. Hill’s keynote explored the notion of dignity and respect, and how it can be a useful frame in working with clients and relating with colleagues. Dr. Hill also explored self-care strategies in dealing with the emotional stressors impacting your work as professionals.
Dr. Hill has extensive experience in both the fields of social work and education and has become employed as a clinician, adjunct faculty member, school social worker, assistant principal, and principal. He is an educational consultant to school districts in MA and CT and is involved in several community-based organizations.
In addition, the conference featured the presentation of the 20th annual Jim Quinn Human Service Award to Ms. Beth Edelberg-Cardillo for her more than 28-year career working in the Human Services field. The Jim Quinn Award honors a human service professional who made outstanding contributions to the social work profession.
For the last 17 years Cardillo has assisted elderly clients with Alzheimer’s in retirement communities. She is an advocate for the elderly through the ALZ Association, co-chairing their walk every year, co-sponsoring their Memories in the Making Art programs, facilitating an ALZ support group, and most recently spearheading the Dementia Friendly-Westfield initiative.
The conference is a joint effort of Western New England University’s Bachelor of Social Work program, Social Work Advisory Council, and Office of Professional Development.
To view or download photos from the conference click here.
