October 19, 2020
Pitt School of Social Work Weekly E-blast
Pittsburgh Campus moving to Guarded Risk Posture
​The University of Pittsburgh’s Pittsburgh campus transitioned from the Elevated Risk Posture to the Guarded Risk Posture today, Mon., October 19th. Please read about how this change in posture will impact the School’s functions and services. Read more.
Students and alumna make a difference in the lives of DV victims
MSW students Cheyanne Neuenschwander and JulieHera DeStefano, working under the supervision of MSW alumna Erin Gillette at the Alle-Kiski HOPE Center, have seen first hand the impact social workers can have on the victims of domestic violence. Read more.
CRSP Fall Institute to confront race, politics, and voter suppression
The Center on Race and Social Problems Fall Institute "Race, Politics and Fighting Voter Suppression" will feature leading researchers, political analysts, and community advocates focused on race, voter engagement, and voter protection. Read more about the sessions and register today!
TONIGHT! Annual Alumni Awards Goes Virtual
Today, October 19, we recognize our newest class of Distinguished Alumni. Join us virtually as we celebrate continued excellence in the field of social work. Learn more about the 2020 Alumni Awardees.
NASW-PA Annual Conference starts Oct. 25
Adjunct faculty member James Andrews and Baker Fellow Kyle Terrill, are among the presenters at this year's NASW-PA virtual conference. Read more.
Faculty highlighted in University video
Faculty members Mary Ohmer and Aliya Durham, and other SSW community and University partners, are featured in the 2020 Community Engaged Scholarship Forum: Building Momentum Together video produced by Pitt. Watch here.
Pet ambassador Mr. Chips brings attention to new guide for local seniors
Mr. Chips is the official pet ambassador for the Guide for aging in place with pets in Allegheny County, created by Research Associate Professor Mary Beth Rauktis and partners. You can find a video about Mr. Chips and his work on YouTube.

The guide is also linked to the work that Rauktis did creating the edited issue "Human–Animal Interaction Knowledge is
Work" for the Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal.
ICYMI: faculty, alum, and PhD student write about organizing and social work education
Faculty members Sara Goodkind and Jeff Shook, along with doctoral student Kess Ballentine, and MSW alumna Gabriella Jones-Casey wrote "Evolving Education: The Power of Organizing — Micro Meets Macro" for Social Work Today magazine.
Alum interviewed on the Conversations To Connect podcast
MSW alumnus Johnnie Geathers spoke to Conversations To Connect, a podcast run by MSW alum, Kristy Weidner, LCSW, as part of their Amplify Black Voices series (Episode 36). It is now available on Apple, Google Play, and Spotify. Listen now.
Upcoming Events
  • October 19, 2020: Distinguished Alumni Awards Virtual Celebration. 5:30pm-8pm. More information.

  • October 20, 2020: CRSP Fall Institute: Race, Politics and Fighting Voter Suppression. 10:00am to 3:00pm. Register here.

  • October 20, 2020: SEC Presents: Anti-Racist Yoga. 5:30-6:30. Zoom Meeting ID: 941 2782 9100

  • October 22, 2020: Continuing Education: Mindfulness: The Basis for Caring & Connecting. 12-1:30pm. Register here.

  • October 22, 2020: Continuing Education: Understanding Disability: The Importance of Storytelling & Goal Setting in the Disability Community. 2:30-5pm. Register here.

  • October 22, 2020: SEC Bi-weekly Meeting. 5:30-6:30 pm. Zoom ID: 243 757 1288

  • October 24, 2020: Career Workshop: Salary Negotiation: What You Need to Know! 12-1pm. Register here.

  • October 24, 2020: Career Workshop: Taking the LSW Exam: A Licensure Overview. 1:30-2:30pm. Register here.


For a complete listing of upcoming events please visit the
Please share our e-blast with your contacts and send any story ideas to shm87@pitt.edu.