UMSSW Honors Change Makers at 2024 Homecoming

Lee Westgate, MSW ’06, was honored with the Alumni of the Year Award for his transformative work as a transgender advocate and his contributions to social work policy, practice, research, and education. Serving with distinction as a faculty member at UMSSW, Westgate has earned widespread recognition for his comprehensive and empathetic approach to behavioral health, particularly highlighting his dedicated efforts to support the LGBTQIA+ community and those individuals confronting the challenges of chronic and life-threatening illnesses. His unwavering commitment to promoting health equity and embedding trauma-informed practices into the fabric of social work has not only significantly advanced the discipline but also has served as a beacon, guiding the next generation of social workers toward a future where innovation, inclusivity, and compassion are at the heart of their practice. Through his scholarly work and practical engagement, Westgate has demonstrated a profound understanding of the complex interplay between social identities and health disparities, thereby enriching the educational experience for students and setting a stellar example of professional excellence and social responsibility.

Holly English, MSW ’13, received the Field Instructor of the Year Award, recognizing her exceptional role in mentoring future social workers. English, a leader in pediatric mental health, has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between medical and mental health providers to improve service accessibility. English’s innovative methods in integrated care serve as a blueprint for how social work can bridge gaps in the health care system, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations receive holistic support. Through her tireless dedication, English embodies the core values of social work, making her a role model for her students and her professional peers.

Ezra Buchdahl, MSW ’88, received the Innovation in Social Work Award for his visionary leadership in guiding residential and school programs for children and families at Catholic Charities. Buchdahl’s approach transcends traditional methods by incorporating his rehabilitation support dog, Carmen, into his practices, bringing an added layer of comfort and healing to those in need. This unique blend of compassionate care and innovative strategies not only supports vulnerable populations but also underscores the transformative power of social work in effecting systemic change. Buchdahl’s creative integration of animal-assisted therapy into his work has left an indelible mark on the lives of many, showcasing the profound impact of empathy and innovation in the field.

The Outstanding Recent Graduate Award was presented to Melvis Asongwed, MSW ’16, who has emerged as a leading figure in the intersection of social work and criminal justice. Asongwed’s pioneering work in forensic social work is opening new pathways for justice and rehabilitation. Her commitment to providing comprehensive care to youths in the criminal justice system and her advocacy for forensic mental health underscore the evolving role of social workers in addressing complex societal challenges. Asongwed’s dedication to providing holistic care to young individuals entangled in legal challenges demonstrates a profound commitment to reshaping their futures through supportive and rehabilitative measures. By championing the cause of forensic mental health, Asongwed is playing a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of social work, making it an indispensable ally in the pursuit of a more equitable and just legal system.

Jenna Koch, MSW ’24, was recognized as the Student of the Year, a distinction that underscores her unwavering commitment to fostering social equity and enhancing mental well-being. Koch’s journey in social work is marked by her academic excellence and impactful fieldwork, notably her involvement with Twist Out Cancer, an organization that provides psychosocial support to individuals touched by cancer. Through this collaboration, she has demonstrated a deep understanding of the power of social work to heal and unite communities, even in the face of life’s most daunting challenges. Her recognition as Student of the Year is not just a personal achievement but also a beacon of hope for the transformative potential of future social workers under her influence.