On Nov. 4, 2017, the Alliance of Black Social Workers—the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW)—celebrated its 50th anniversary at the African American Museum of Philadelphia. The GSSWSR was pleased to be a sponsor for the gala and awards ceremony to support the organization and our graduates who have been involved in its work.
In 1969, Philadelphia ABSW hosted its first national conference. Over the years the organization has been engaged in advocacy, education, and service projects. GSSWSR graduates who have served presidents of Philadelphia ABSW are Thad Mathis, M.S.S. ’68, one of the evening’s honorees; Tawana Ford Sabbath, M.S.S. ’71, Ph.D. ’86; and Julius Hayes, M.S.S./M.L.S.P. ’87. All continue to play major leadership roles in the national organization as well at the local level.
The NABSW student chapter at ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥ was organized in 1983 by Carolyn Bolling Allen, M.S.S. ’86, and Roxie Williams Shabazz, M.S.S. ’85, who were inspired through a course taught by Prof. Raymond Albert. Ruth Mayden, M.S.S. ’70, then Associate Dean, was instrumental in gaining Dean Rick Gaskins’ support for the establishment of the organization.
In the 1980s, the NABSW chapter was the first group at ÷ÈÓ°Ö±²¥ to host Black History Month celebrations at the College. Early programs were held in the Great Hall and poet Sonia Sanchez was one of the first presenters. Over the years, educational panels have addressed topics such as homelessness, the status of the Black male, Black families, and issues of incarceration. Recently the chapter presented a symposium on African-centered social work facilitated by Dr. Thaddeus P. Mathis, who developed a certificate program for NABSW. The chapter programs are open to the entire College community. GSSWSR appreciates the ongoing support and mentoring for our student chapter provided by the Philadelphia ABSW.
At the GSSWSR table at the celebration were Dean Janet Shapiro; Prof. Raymond Albert and wife, Theresa; graduates Jenny Campbell, Ph.D. ’82 and Nancy Kirby, M.S.S. ’65; and three current students: Kimberly Bonner, Psalm McDaniels, and Jackie Taylor.
GSSWSR continues to appreciate the relationship between Philadelphia ABSW, our student chapter, and the School.
In addition to the GSSWSR graduates mentioned above, also in attendance were Vera Days, M.S.S. ’98; Curtis Murray, M.S.S. ’77; Dana Robinson, M.S.S. '10; and Karen White, M.S.S./M.L.S.P. '14.