Our Mission Is To Promote Social Justice Through

Quality Professional Education

The School of Social Work

Fall 2022 Semester Newsletter

We acknowledge that The University of Windsor sits on the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations, comprised of the Ojibwa, the Odawa, and the Potawatomi. We respect the longstanding relationships with First Nations People in this place in the 100-mile Windsor-Essex Peninsula and the straits - les détroits of Detroit.

Happy Holidays from the School of Social Work

Happy Holidays from the School of Social Work! Wishing everyone a safe and healthy holiday season. We can't wait to see you online or in person in 2023!

We would like to let you know about our upcoming holiday hours.

The University of Windsor will close for the holidays effective Friday, December 23 and will re-open on Tuesday, January 3. The first day of classes for the Winter 2023 semester is Thursday, January 5.

If you have any questions, please direct them to your respective programs. We will respond to your emails upon our return on Tuesday, January 3, 2022.

BSW – bsw@uwindsor.ca

Disability Studies – disabilitystudies@uwindsor.ca

MSW/MSW/JD/PhD – gradsw@uwindsor.ca

MSWwp – msw@uwindsor.ca

Women's and Gender Studies - wgst@uwindsor.ca

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Indigenous Art Unveiling Event at the School of Social Work on October 6th in Windsor Hall.



The event was very well attended, and we are looking forward to sharing photos and a video of the event in an upcoming newsletter. Thank you to Mr. John Williams, Ojibway artist from Aamjiwnaang First Nation in Sarnia, ON who presented his original painting, titled "Crazy Star". The captivating art piece will be placed in the Windsor Hall foyer in the coming year. Thank you to Ms. Theresa Sims and Dr. Beverly Jacobs who also presented at the event.

Pictured below are: Dr. Robin Wright, Director of the School of Social Work, Mr. John Williams and his son Theo.

Faculty News

Dr. Brent Angell and Dr. Amy Alberton

Critical Social Work: An Interdisciplinary Journal Dedicated to Social Justice has been hosted at the University of Windsor since 2003. First conceptualized by Dr. Richard Pozzuto when he was a faculty member at West Virginia University, the idea became a reality when he and Dr. G. Brent Angell, both then at East Carolina University, collaborated in creating Critical Social Work as the first web-based, open access social work journal.

Launched in 2000, the journal’s focus has always been on encouraging constructive scholarly dialogue on various forms of social injustice and oppression using a critical perspective lens.

Being hosted by the University of Windsor has been key to ensuring that the journal is a free and accessible tool for everyone.

It has also been a wonderful way to introduce students to the behind the scenes work on a journal. For example, the current Managing Editor, Dr. Amy Alberton, Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at Wichita State University, began working on the journal during her doctoral studies at Windsor and continues to be an integral part of the editorial team to this day. Prior to Dr. Alberton, Dr. Carol Scott, Research Fellow in the School of Information at the University of Michigan, served as the journal’s Managing Editor during her time as a student in the MSW program at Windsor.

As Professor Emeritus, Dr. G. Brent Angell continues to serve as the Editor in Chief of Critical Social Work and reminds us that our obligation is to be inquisitive and to be willing to question arrangements, practices, and people that disenfranchise and subjugate.

You can read the articles posted on Critical Social Work by going to https://ojs.uwindsor.ca/index.php/csw/index

Dr. Betty Barrett

The House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women drew recommendations from the Animal and Interpersonal Abuse Research Group, consisting of Dr. Betty Barrett and her research colleagues, Amy Fitzgerald (sociology and criminology and the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research), and Patti Fritz (psychology), and sociologist Rochelle Stevenson of Thompson Rivers University. For more information, please read the Daily News story at Commons committee heeds call for action from researchers | DailyNews (uwindsor.ca)

Dr. Barrett is also currently the Co-Director of the Health Research Centre for the Study of Violence Against Women: https://www.uwindsor.ca/hrcvaw/

If anyone (students, faculty, community, etc.) is interested in being involved with either group, we are always looking for new affiliate members, please contact Dr. Barrett directly: bbarrett@uwindsor.ca

Dr. Kristen Lwin

Congratulations to Dr. Lwin, Christine Elgie, Ahiney Laryea, and Hillary Walker on their collaboration on the following publication.

Lwin, K., Laryea, A., Walker, H., Elgie, C. Head, S, & Gizzarelli, R. (in press). Evidence-informed Decision-making Training in Child Welfare: Evaluation of a Proof of Concept. Journal of Evidence-based Social Work. 

Please read more about Ahiney, Christine and Hillary in "Student News". 

Dr. Cynthia Stirbys

Congratulations to Dr. Cynthia Stirbys for the following publications:

Stirbys, Cynthia D. (2021). Potentializing Wellness to Overcome Generational Trauma. In Grounded Theory Review, Issue 1, June 2021, Volume 20.  

See: http://groundedtheoryreview.com/2021/06/21/potentializing-wellness-to-overcome-generational-trauma/. 

Lindsey Jaber, Cynthia Stirbys, Jesse Scott, and Emma Foong (2021). Indigenous Women’s Experiences of Lateral Violence: A Systematic Literature Review. In Trauma, Violence, & Abuse 2022, Vol. 0(0) 1–14 © The Author(s) 2022. DOI: 10.1177/15248380221077316 

Forthcoming Chapters (co-authored):

R. Major and C. Stirbys, “Breaking their Silence: Boundaries and Consequences for Indigenous Women in Politics” in an edited volume, editors Cheryl Collier and Tracey Raney, Gender-based Violence in Canadian Politics in the #MeToo Era, UTP. 2021. 

R. Major and C. Stirbys, “Canada Act, 1982: Using the master’s institutional instruments to dismantle the master’s goals of Indigenous rights certainty” in an edited volume, editors Emmett Macfarlane and Kate Puddister, The Constitution Act, 1982: 40 Years Later; Rights, Reconciliation & Constitutional Change. UBC Press. 2021.  

Student News

Dr. Amy Alberton, Dr. Kevin Gorey and Naomi G. Williams, PhD Student

Congratulations to Dr. Kevin Gorey, Dr. Amy Alberton and Naomi G. Williams, PhD Student for their recent publication in the Journal of Indigenous Social Development.

Williams, N. G., Alberton, A. M., & Gorey, K. M. (2022). Morbid and mortal inequities among Indigenous Peoples in Canada and the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic: Rapid review of relative risks and protections. Journal of Indigenous Social Development, 11, 3-32.

Pictured: Naomi G. Williams



Naomi G. Williams is an Anishinaabe woman from Bkejwanong First Nation (also known as Walpole Island First Nation), and she lives in Windsor, Ontario. Naomi attributes her academic success to the support she receives from her family, Indigenous community and the University of Windsor, School of Social Work faculty and staff members. Prior to starting the PhD social work program, Naomi worked as the Aboriginal Outreach Coordinator for the University of Windsor’s Aboriginal Education Centre. Her role was to support students from First Nation communities to pursue a postsecondary degree and then to succeed in both their new academic and social environment. Naomi has worked in the field of early childhood education, post-secondary education, child welfare and prevention of family violence. She has also volunteered with the Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre and Can-Am Urban Native Homes in Windsor. Naomi started her career in the social support of her community as a Teacher’s Assistant at Bkejwanong Children’s Centre on Walpole Island. She collaborated on the design of developmentally appropriate curriculum for children. She served as the Lead Teacher at the Ska:na Family Learning Centre in Windsor. She also was the Associate Head Start Teacher at the Windsor Aboriginal Head Start Program, where she assisted in developing, maintaining and delivering a quality child care program. Naomi has been involved in several research projects, which engage Indigenous Communities in community based research that address health and social issues. Naomi’s dissertation research will focus on the prevention of Vehicular Injury within First Nations, Inuit and Métis Communities.

Dr. Amy Alberton graduated from the School of Social Work’s PhD program in 2021 and is a also a graduate of our MSWwp program. Dr. Alberton has taught in the School of Social Work and continues to collaborate on research projects with UWindsor’s School of Social Work faculty. She is an Assistant Professor at Wichita State University, where her research focuses on Indigenous Peoples.

Dr. Riham Al-Saadi,

PhD Graduate

On Friday October 28th, 2022, Dr. Riham Al-Saadi has passed her dissertation defense titled, “Preserving my Arab-Self while Finding my Home in Canada: First Generation Recent Arab Immigrant Emerging Adults’ Perspectives on Acculturation Experiences and Canadian Society’s Role in Fostering Equitable Participation”. Dr. Al-Saadi shared a few words to describe the day: "I am still comprehending living this moment of a lifetime, a moment I've dreamed of since I was 12. Reaching here and having a defense full of love, support, warmth, and some tears was an inevitable outcome of belonging to the best School of Social Work. My appreciation list is endless, for all of you had a part in it; however, I wish to extend my utmost respect and endless appreciation to the best committee a candidate could ask for, I pray that I made you all proud today. Dr. Park: You are an idol; thank you for supporting my journey with your ideal supervision. I owe this moment to you... To all of you". 

We can't wait to hear what you do next, Dr. Al-Saadi! All the best to you as you move forward in your exciting career!

Please read more about Dr. Al-Saadi's research at Current Students | School of Social Work (uwindsor.ca) 

Christine Elgie,

MSW Graduate

Driven by my passion for promoting mental health, I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2020 and completed my Masters of Social Work in 2022. During my Master's program and completing a research placement with Dr. Lwin, I was able to learn strategies in conducting research and using evidence-based practice. From working with Dr. Lwin, I gained a strong interest in research and finding ways to fill gaps in knowledge and further the social work field. My work with Dr. Lwin allowed me to use my skills in collecting and interpreting research and assist in publishing an article in the Journal of Evidence Based Social Work.

Amaar El Haaj,

B.S.W. Student

Hello everyone! My name is Amaar El Hajj and I am a fourth year Social Work student at the University of Windsor. I am proud to announce that I recently attended the Dean's Honour Roll Reception Event, which occurred at the University of Windsor on November 15th, 2022, to celebrate my academic achievements of being on the Dean's list. It was truly an honour to receive this academic award from the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social

Sciences, Dr. Cheryl Collier. I would sincerely like to thank everyone who contributed to making this event possible.

I am so grateful for the support I have received from my professors, family, friends, and colleagues throughout my academic journey. A special thank you goes out to

Ms. Nicole Scott, Dr. Cynthia Stirbys, Dr. Jayashree Mohanty, and Ms.

Debbie Curran, who I have had the wonderful opportunity of working alongside of

and/or learning from within the classroom setting over the past few years. I

cherish the lessons I have learned from each of you, which I will carry with me

throughout the rest of my journey. 

I am so excited to see what the future holds, and it is with great appreciation that I say, I am proud to be a University of Windsor student!

Ahiney Laryea, MSW Graduate

My name is Ahiney Laryea and I feel privileged that I had the opportunity to complete my Masters of Social Work at the University of Windsor. I feel grateful that I could contribute to this publication alongside my colleagues.

Working on this research paper under the leadership of Dr. Lwin was a positive experience for me. I came to know Dr. Lwin as her graduate assistant for one of her undergraduate courses. In the first meeting I had with Dr. Lwin, I was struck by the interest she took in my career aspirations. When I shared that I was in interested in conducting research she was generous to say that she would reach out to me if she was working on something. This journal article is an example of Dr. Lwin's generosity towards me. Throughout the research process Dr. Lwin's passion for research was constant. She was a mentor, she was supportive and ensured we had everything needed as we worked on our respective parts, she was encouraging when she provided feedback, she was patient in fielding the multiple questions I asked, and her sense of humor made the process enjoyable.

The publication of this journal article is one of the many fond memories of my time in Windsor. To the current social work students who read this I hope you have a good experience in the program like I did I wish you all the best for this academic year, and in the future endeavors you pursue!

Hillary Walker, MSW Graduate

Hillary lives in Hamilton, Ontario and graduated from the MSW for Working Professionals Program in 2021; prior to this, she received an undergraduate degree in Geography from McGill.

Hillary began her social work career in adolescent mental health and was a frontline child welfare worker while completing her MSW. She is currently seeking opportunities in social work research and policy.

Hillary notes that "collaborating on this article was a highlight of my MSW experience! Dr. Lwin is a brilliant and thoughtful mentor who understands how to make academic research accessible to students." 

Alumni News

Christine Quaglia (BA 2004, BSW 2005, MSW 2007) recently co-authored a children's book titled, Charlotte’s Shadow. The book highlights diversity, inclusion and opens up the discussion early for children to learn about accessibility and disability.

Christine is a Special Needs Advisor And Technical Facilitator in UWindsor's Student Accessibility Services.

Please read more in the Christine's Daily News story at Christine Quaglia | DailyNews (uwindsor.ca)

Photo Credit: Daily News

Campus Resources:

Lancer Recover Program

Hello! 

We’re excited to announce that the University of Windsor’s student recovery program, Lancers Recover, has shifted from online to ON-CAMPUS support! We’re the first university in Ontario to have an on-site recovery program and need help spreading the word about this wonderful resource for our students! Please share this information widely with your networks and contacts on campus. 

What is Lancers Recover?

• A peer-to-peer student program that provides an intentional and affirming space for all students who identify as being in recovery or are interested in / seeking recovery from substance use or addictive behaviours.

• We help students achieve personal and academic success by connecting students with shared experiences, normalizing the recovery identity, providing a recovery-informed space that encourages intersectional voices, and facilitating sober social activities.

• Recovery (from alcohol, substances, and/or behaviors) is unique to each person, with ups and downs that occur over time with ongoing work. It is a dynamic process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential. 

Why is it Important?

• Substance use disorder is the most highly stigmatized mental health condition in the world 1

• Substance use issues impact nearly 1 in 4 students in Post-secondary schools with 90% of problems beginning between the ages of 12 and 20; universities are a primary location for young adults to struggle with substance use. 2

• Drinking alcohol is normalized both on campus and in our society. The belief that student binge drinking is “just a phase” is inaccurate—SUD rates increase from 7% to 20% in early adulthood. 3

• This belief perpetuates shame and stigma and causes students to think something is wrong with them when they can’t stop drinking. Students in this situation can feel isolated and may be more likely to hide their struggles. 

Who is This Service For?

• People interested in or seeking recovery 
• People wanting to reduce substance use or examine the way they use substances 
• People wanting to learn more about substance use issues 
• Staff / faculty / student leaders looking to support students on campus 
• People impacted by substance use within their families or friend groups 
• Anyone on campus interested in becoming a Recovery Ally 
• Anyone looking for resources or referrals to other campus or community resources 

Where Can I Find Lancers Recover?

• We meet weekly on Fridays in room 275-A Chrysler Hall South 
• For more information, please contact: lancersrecover@uwindsor.ca 

1 United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2017; World Health Organization, 2018 

² Dennis & Scott, 2007; Laudet et al., 2016; Lipari et al., 2016 

³ Harris et al., 2014; Keane, 2018 

Meeting Info (2022-23): Every Friday 3-4pm in CHS 275-A

For more information, email

lancersrecover@uwindsor.ca

OASW (Ontario Association of Social Workers)

OASW held their first Award ceremony in the three years in August this past summer. The ceremony also recognized award winners for the past two years. 

Congratulations to the recipients!

Distinguished Social Worker Award

Recognizing social workers and OASW members across the province who have demonstrated leadership and commitment to the Association and/or the social work profession. 

2022: Jim Jeannette

2021: Jane Gagnon

2020: Candace Hind

Community Contribution Award

Celebrating social workers or other professionals who support social justice, equity integration and/or inclusion in your communities.

2022: Dana Dupuis

2021: Michael Bennett

2020: Noah’s House

Fall 2022 Updates from

Sharon Munro, Social Work Librarian