SU School of Social Work Announces 2023 Alumni Award Winners

SALISBURY, MD---Salisbury University’s School of Social Work honored two alumnae at its annual Social Work Alumni Awards and Continuing Education Event.

Katrina Dixon Patterson ’07 M’08 was recognized as this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award winner. Jenna Haines M’19 earned the Rising Professional Alumni Award. 

The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes B.A.S.W. and M.S.W. alumni who graduated more than 10 years prior and demonstrate outstanding contributions to the social work profession and society. Such contributions may include but are not limited to direct practice with individuals, families, and groups; field supervision of social work students; social work education; advocacy; community organization; social policy; research; administration; and program development. These alumni possess strong leadership skills, demonstrate a high standard of professional values and ethical behavior, and are innovators in their practice.

Patterson was lauded for her decades of advocacy helping children and families, those impacted by homelessness and those with developmental disabilities, and for her roles with several philanthropic organizations.  

The Rising Professional Alumni Award recognizes B.A.S.W. and M.S.W. graduates within the past 10 years who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to the social work profession and society. These alumni exemplify innovative practices and professional values, and are making remarkable impacts in one or more of the following areas: direct practice, advocacy, research, administration, community organizing, social policy and program development.

Haines was honored due to her passion and persistence in leading the charge for the incorporation of mental health services in criminal justice systems. Colleagues commended her for how she “has transformed the way in which law enforcement officials view behavioral health disorders and the way in which they interact with this population,” adding that her “strive for innovative solutions to routine calls has made her a vital resource to officers.”

Connected to this year’s Social Work Month theme of “Social Work Breaks Barriers,” the continuing education topic was “Civic Engagement as a Social Work Intervention: Where Macro Meets Micro,” presented by Kristina Whiton-O'Brien and Chelsea White-Hoglen, social workers with Vot-ER, a non-profit organization that works to integrate civic engagement into health care. More than 50 alumni attended the virtual event.

Social Work alumni are encouraged to stay connected by becoming field supervisors; joining the Alumni Advisory Committee; remaining up to date with the latest news by following @SUSocialWork on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; and joining the “Salisbury University School of Social Work Alumni” groups on Facebook and LinkedIn.

For more information visit the social work alumni webpage. 

Learn more about SU and opportunities to Make Tomorrow Yours at the SU website.