The School of Social Work

Spring 2025 Newsletter

The mission of the School of Social Work is to promote

 social justice through quality professional education, advocacy, community partnerships, and the development and dissemination of knowledge through enquiry.

School of Social Work celebrates Awards of Excellence Recipients and Graduating Students!

Pictured Above: Dr. Festus Moasun, Dr. Jayashree Mohanty, Ms. Marium Tolson-Murtty, 2025 EDID Committee Award Recipient, and Dr. Wayne Ambrose-Miller, Director,

School of Social Work

The School of Social Work is incredibly proud of our graduating class! On Tuesday, June 3rd, Social Work students celebrated their convocation at the Toldo Lancer Centre, followed by our annual Graduation Social event at the School of Social Work. This event was sponsored by the UWindsor Alumni Association .

We took this special time to honour our student representatives and ambassadors, as well as our outstanding Awards of Excellence recipients.

As part of the celebration, graduating students also shared their favourite memories through a photo slideshow—capturing the spirit, dedication, and camaraderie of this amazing journey.

Congratulations to all our graduates—we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make in the world!

Student Representatives & Student Ambassadorsc

We would like to take this opportunity to for a special recognition announcement to our

2024-2025 Student Representatives & Student Ambassadors in the School of Social Work:



Student Representatives On Campus:

Special recognition to oReanna Dirrhami, BSW Student Representative

Mac Fellows, MSW Student Representative

Lea Joy Friesen, PhD Student Representative

Justice Hargrove, Research Ethics Student Representative

Tracy Lee, EDID Committee Student Representative

Lorraine Oloya, Appointments Committee and Renewal, Tenure, and Promotion Committee Student Representative

Emily Woodward, MSW/JD Student Representative

Student Representatives MSWwp (Working Professionals):

Valerie Brosseau - Section 40

Marina Menezes - Section 47

Madi Debakker - Section 48

Sophie Schmitz - Section 52

Pamela Biffis - Section 53

Taylor McRae - Section 54

Olivia Detlor - Section 55

Jordan Charles - Section 56

Vanessa Chretien - Section 57

Helen Unger - Section 58

Amanda O'Malley - Section 59

Christina Carr - Section 60

Jessica Seron - School Council Representative

Emily Baker - MSW Committee Student Representative

Student Ambassadors:

Katelyn Boer

Lana Doski

Leah Elliot

Riley Haskell

Caitlin Hoogsteen

Leigha Hossack

Kimberly Mazerolle

Mary Pallisco

Eliane Piccoli

Monica Saunders

2025 Awards of Excellence Recipients

Faith Hale, 2025 Inspirational Leader Award 

Faith Hale is a proud member of the Three Affiliated Tribes of the MHA Nation, is the Executive Director and co-founder of Ska:na Family Learning Centre (SFLC), one of Ontario’s first Indigenous organizations focused on Child Care and Early Years programming. Faith was instrumental in researching, developing, and implementing an urban Indigenous culturally relevant early years framework. Under her leadership, SFLC continues to grow, offering diverse programs and services, while Faith mentors the Child Care and Early Years sector through collaboration with various boards, committees, and networks.

READ MORE

Marium Tolson-Murtty, 2025 EDID Committee Award

Marium Tolson-Murtty is a proud Windsorite, educator, advocate, entrepreneur, wife, mother, and community leader. As the youngest of seven children, she has deep roots in Windsor, a city she has always called home. Marium takes immense pride in her African Canadian heritage as a descendant of the Underground Railroad. She is a three-time alumna of the University of Windsor, where she earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, a Bachelor of Education, and a Master of Education. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Education, Marium’s research addresses anti-Black racism and systemic inequities in post-secondary education, exploring their impact on students’ success and persistence in higher education.

READ MORE

Bill Dixon, Distinguished Alumni Award

Bill Dixon is a dedicated Social Work educator, practitioner, and practice consultant with extensive experience in clinical practice, student supervision, and academic collaboration. A proud graduate of the University of Windsor’s MSW Working Professionals program, Bill brings a unique blend of academic knowledge and real-world experience to his work in the Social Work field. Early in his career, Bill worked as a Student Support Counsellor and Assistive Technology Coach working with individuals with severe learning disabilities, ADHD, ADD, and other mental health concerns through one-on-one and group counseling and assistive technology education.

READ MORE

Diana Gabriele, Distinguished Alumni Award

Diana graduated with her BSW in 1999 from the University of Windsor. She followed up with a minor in Gerontology, which she completed seven years later while attending classes on a part time basis.  During her studies, she volunteered and later employed at The Windsor Family Forum, which was a grass roots organization dedicated to building strong, healthy families by providing group and individual counselling. Here she not only learned about gender equality, anger management, addictions, and mental health, but also group facilitation and couples counselling. 

READ MORE

Margo Collver, Outstanding Field Instructor Award 2025

Margo Collver graduated in 1998 with a BSW (Honors) from King’s University College, London, Ontario. Since that time her career has spanned a wide range of practice settings including hospitals, long-term care, and community-based services. With a deep commitment to advocacy, client-centred care and interdisciplinary collaboration, Margo has dedicated her career to supporting people through life transitions, health challenges and aging related needs. Currently Margo is the Director of Community & Supportive Care at St. Joseph’s Hospice London, where she continues to demonstrate her compassionate approach, strong mentorship skills, and a lifelong dedication to upholding the values and ethics of the social work profession.

READ MORE

Neil Van Velzen, Outstanding Field Instructor Award 2025

Neil has worked in the child welfare field since graduation from the University of Windsor with a Masters degree in Social Work. Neil has more than 25 years experience as a social worker in the school system counseling students, parents and teachers.

He is officially retired but volunteers at Crossroads and the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

READ MORE 

Cyrene Gauvin, Outstanding Graduate Assistant Award 2025

My name is Cyrene Gauvin. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and recently completed my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Windsor through the Advanced Standing Program. I was never a straight-A student, and there was a time when I wasn’t sure I’d even go to university. I didn’t know if I had what it took to succeed. But social work was the one field I truly desired, so I decided to take a chance on myself and give it everything I had. I grew up hearing, 'Just do your best, and that’s all that matters.' Those words stayed with me. Now, five years later, as I reach the end of this chapter in my academic journey, I find myself reflecting on how far I’ve come.

READ MORE

EDID Committee

in the School of Social Work



Thank you to the EDID Committee for their outstanding work this year. This small but mighty team have successfully launched several events this year and made significant contributions to "Building an equitable, diverse, inclusive and decolonized UWindsor School of Social Work".

Congratulations to the team, lead by Dr. Festus Moasun, for securing funding again this year. Their funding was granted for the second year by the office of the VP, People, Equity, & Inclusion under the The University Diversity, Indigeneity, and Anti-Racism Professional Development Fund (Article U) | Office of the Vice-President, People, Equity, and Inclusion

Most recently, at our SSW Faculty and Staff retreat, a workshop/presentation titled Supporting Black and racialized students in social work education: Improving curriculum content was on the agenda for the morning half of the day. We were very pleased to note that invited guest speaker Dr. Uzo Anucha from York University lead this presentation. This portion of the retreat was sponsored by the above noted funding.

Dr. Anucha is full Professor in the School of Social Work at York University and the York Research Chair in Youth and Contexts of Inequity.

On January 1^st, 2025 Dr. Uzo Anucha was appointed to the role of Associate Vice-President, Faculty Affairs at York. To learn more about Dr. Anucha please visit her faculty profile at Uzo Anucha | Faculty Profile | Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies

Many thanks to Dr. Anucha for attending our retreat and leading us into rich and powerful discussions around supporting black and racialized students in the School of Social Work. We appreciate your time and commitment to enriching our School.

A special thank you to Onyinyechi Akpovwovwo, our EDID Ignite Student who assisted with our events and work with EDID. We greatly appreciate you, Onyi!

2024-2026 EDID Committee Members

Moasun, Festus

EDID Committee Chair

Assistant Professor

Mohanty, Jayashree

EDID Comittee Co-Chair

Associate Professor

Al-Saadi, Riham

EDID Committee Member,

Palestinian Student Support Advisor 

Assistant Professor, MSWwp Program

Hrncic-Lipovic, Katka

EDID Committee Member 

Field Learning Specialist

Levin, Dana

EDID Committee Member (Sept - Dec 2024) 

Associate Professor

Park, Wansoo

EDID Committee Member,

MSWwp Academic Coordinator 

Associate Professor

Sanson, Milena (she/her)

EDID Committee Member 

Field Learning Specialist

Szechy, Kathy

EDID Committee Member (Jan 2025 - June 2025)

Assistant Professor 

Tracy Lee

EDID Committee Student Representative

Deb Curran

EDID Committee Secretary 2024-2025

Faculty News

Dr. Kristen Lwin and Dr. Jayashree Mohanty

A message from Dr. Wayne Ambrose-Miller

The FAHSS Faculty and Staff Awards were held on May 21st, 2025. I'm very pleased to announce that two of our Social Work faculty received awards:

Dr. Jayashree Mohanty was awarded the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Decolonization Champion Award : "To honour a faculty or staff member who actively inspires and advances equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences"

Dr. Kristen Lwin was awarded the Dr. Kathleen McCrone Teaching Award: "To honour an instructor in FAHSS who shows excellence in undergraduate and/or graduate teaching, curriculum development, and course design. The award recognizes and celebrates faculty who develop a positive, learning-centered, and inclusive environment in FAHSS. It is also intended to highlight and share examples of excellence".

Congratulations to both of you!

Dr. Connie Kvarfordt & Ms. Mary Kay Morand

Two of our esteemed colleagues have announced they're retiring! Dr. Connie Kvarfordt & Ms. Mary Kay Morand will be retiring effective June 30th.

As you both close this remarkable chapter, we celebrate not just the years you've spent here, but the lasting impact you've made. Your dedication to students, your commitment to learning, and your unwavering passion for education have shaped minds, inspired colleagues, and strengthened this university community.

You leave behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and integrity—one that will continue to echo in classrooms, hallways, and hearts for years to come.

May retirement bring you the same joy, purpose, and fulfillment that you brought to your time here. Wishing you rest, adventure, and all the things that make your heart feel full. You will be missed—and always remembered.

Congratulations, and thank you both for your immense contributions.

Photos left to right: Dr. Connie Kvarfordt, Professor, and Mary Kay Morand, Coordinator of Field Education Programs (On Campus)

Dr. Adrian Guta & Dr. Katherine Rudzinski

Congratulations to Dr. Adrian Guta and Dr. Katherine Rudzinski on their recent paper. Lady Laforet, Executive Director of the Welcome Centre Shelter for Women and Families was a contributor on the paper.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-025-21919-w

"Navigating fragmented services: a gender-based violence (GBV) critical feminist analysis of women’s experiences engaging with health and social supports in three Canadian cities"

Here is some further information on Dr. Katherine Rudzinski:

Dr. Katherine Rudzinski is a Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)- funded Postdoctoral Fellow in the School of Social Work, University of Windsor. She has a Master of Arts in Criminology, specializing in addictions, and a doctorate in public health sciences from the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto. She was a Mitacs Elevate Postdoctoral Fellow jointly with the Casey House Foundation and held a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Postdoctoral Fellowship.

Katherine has 16 years of experience working with and for people who use drugs on community-based research projects, including as research coordinator at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). She has been a Co-I on projects funded by the Ontario HIV Treatment Network (OHTN), SSHRC, and CIHR. Katherine is currently PI on a SSHRC Insight Development Grant examining women’s experiences of safer supply programs (SSPs) in Ontario using an arts-based and theoretically-informed approach to understand how these programs may potentially impact the victimization and criminalization of women. She is also Co-PI on an OHTN-funded project exploring the key factors for developing a gender responsive model for supervised consumption services (SCS). Katherine has expertise in social theory, resilience, harm reduction, gender, and mixed-methods research. Her current research focuses on using arts-based approaches (e.g., photovoice, cellphilm) to engage women and gender diverse individuals to share their experiences with safer supply programs.

Dr. Riham Al-Saadi

A Message from Dr. Wayne Ambrose-Miller, Director

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Riham Al-Saadi who recently received the Society for the Study of Emerging Adulthood (SSEA) Dr. Jeffrey Arnett Dissertation Award. The SSEA is a multidisciplinary, international organization with a focus on theory and research related to emerging adulthood (About - SSEA). Riham was selected as one of 4 recipients amongst 37 competing dissertations for this award which includes a certificate of acknowledgement and a $750 USD grant. Riham’s favourite moments from the conference which took place in Charleston, South Carolina last week included extended conversation with Dr. Arnett & his wife and the tag with "award winning" on it that initiated many conversations with international scholars with potential studies and collaborations to come.

Congratulations Dr. Al-Saadi on this outstanding achievement and well deserved recognition of your work!

Photo Above: Dr. Jeffrey Arnett, Dr. Riham Al-Saadi, and Dr. Lene Jensen Arnett

Dr. Aman Ahluwalia-Cameron

A Message from Dr. Connie Kvarfordt, PhD Coordinator

It is with great pleasure that I send this congratulatory note announcing Aman Ahluwalia-Cameron’s successful dissertation defense. The title of her research was “Clinical Practice to System Change: A Critical Realist Qualitative Study of Social Workers’ Perspectives on Borderline Personality Disorder Care Delivery in Ontario.” Please join me in commending the now Dr. Ahluwalia-Cameron for her achievement.

Dr. Ahluwalia-Cameron successfully defended in April 2025. Congratulations, Aman! We are so very proud of you!

Dr. Michael Bennett

A message from Dr. Wayne Ambrose-Miller, Director

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Michael Bennett, on his recent publications, invitation as a Keynote Speaker and upcoming conference presentation. Congratulations Dr. Bennett on all of your wonderful achievements and wishing you continued success!

Two manuscripts accepted for publication:

• Deka-Handique, S., Bennett, M., & Ryan, S. (in press). Fulfilling end-of-life dreams: A scoping review of bucket lists in palliative and hospice care. Palliative & Supportive Care.

• Deka-Handique, S., Jang, S., Bennett, M., & Ryan, S. (in press). Invisible pillars with hidden burdens: A scoping review of challenges faced by informal caregivers of older adults in home-based palliative care. Journal of Palliative Care.

Contributed (and had accepted) a chapter to a new textbook:

• Bennett, M. (in press). Understanding palliative care through a radical, ethical social work lens. In J. Schmid & M. Morgenshtern (Eds.), International handbook of radical, ethical social work. Routledge.

Invitation to deliver a keynote opening address last week:

• Bennett, M. (2025, May). Final wishes, lasting impact: Enhancing care by discussing hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Invited keynote address at Healthcare Conference Canada Inc.'s 16th Annual Conference on Palliative & End-of-Life Care - Heeding the Needs of the Dying: Approaches to Compassionate Care, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Presenting a paper at another conference on Monday:

• Deka-Handique, S., Bennett, M., & Ryan, S. (2025, June). Fulfilling end-of-life dreams: A scoping review of bucket lists in hospice and palliative care. Paper presentation at the 2025 Hospice Palliative Care Ontario's Annual Conference - Collaboration, Excellence, Innovation, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.



Dr. Siham Elkassem

Congratulations to Dr. Elkassem on her recent publication:

Elkassem, S. (2025). Beyond Hate: Confronting Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim Racism in Social Work. Intersectionalities 2025, 13(1), 1–29. 

Dr. Elkassem's publication examines Islamophobia and anti-Muslim racism (AMR) in Canada and it's alarming increase of targeted killings amongst muslims in our country. The time is now for social workers and the greater community to come together to abolish Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim Racism.



Dr. Kristina Nikolova

A message from Dr. Wayne Ambrose-Miller, Director

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Kristina Nikolova who has been granted early Tenure and Promotion to Associate Professor effective July 1^st, 2025. Kristina joined the School of Social Work on July 1^st, 2022 as Assistant Professor and an alumnus of our on-campus MSW Program.

Dr. Nikolova’s research background focuses on child welfare and intimate partner violence. Since January 2023, Kristina has been supporting the School of Social Work and students through her continued leadership as BSW Program Coordinator. She further represents the School of Social Work as a member of FAHSS’s FCC and the university’s Academic Policy Committee.

Congratulations Dr. Nikolova on this outstanding achievement in your career. We wish you nothing but continued success!

Dr. Kathy Szechy

Dr. Kathy Szechy has two new first author publications in the month of May:

Szechy, K. A., & O’Donnell, L. A. (2025). Autism Knowledge Matters: Perceptions of an Autistic Employee’s Competency and Attitudes Toward Workplace Social Inclusion. Autism in Adulthood.

https://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2024.0261

Szechy, K. A., Ramos, P., Bray, M., Anderson, N., Wiseman, R., & O’Donnell, L. A. (2025). “Rooted in ableism:” an embedded mixed methods study of disability disclosure on a university campus. Disability & Society, 1–25.

https://doi.org/10.1080/09687599.2025.2498413

Congratulations, Dr. Szechy!

Staff News

Congratulations to our awesome staff member, Brigitte Romao! Brigitte was accepted into the MSWwp program for the fall 2025 intake. We are so proud of you, Brigitte!

Brigitte started in 2022 in the role of BSW Secretary. We are grateful for all your hard work and commitment to the School!

Brigitte is a graduate of UWindsor. She graduated in 2021 from the Bachelor of Arts, Women's and Gender Studies program.

We can't wait to hear more from our future Social Worker!

Student News

Lea Joy Friesen, PhD Student

Congratulations to Joy Friesen and her co-presenters, Massah Tarawalley, and Heidi Han for their recent abstract presentation at the CSWDSN 2025 held last May at the University of Toronto.

Lead Presenter: Lea Joy Friesen

Co presenter- Massah Tarawalley, Heidi Han 

Decolonizing Attachment: Culturally Situated Caregiving and Structural Resilience among Left-Behind Filipino Children

Abstract

Parental migration, spurred by economic and social forces, has contributed to the rise of “left-behind children” (LBCs)—an often overlooked group whose experiences pose a pressing and interconnected social challenge encompassing family separation, mental health concerns, and shifting community needs. This doctoral-level inquiry responds to the call for “fresh, decolonized approaches” by critiquing traditional, Western-centric Attachment Theory and foregrounding culturally situated caregiving traditions prevalent in Filipino communities. By synthesizing Attachment Theory, Trauma Theory, Resilience Theory, and Push-Pull Theory, this study provides an innovative and multifaceted analysis of how prolonged separations, structural inequities, and cultural contexts converge to shape LBCs’ well-being.

Through a future-oriented lens, the project considers the long-term trajectories of adults who were once LBCs, proposing contextually responsive interventions that value extended family networks, collective support systems, and culturally specific caregiving practices. This perspective challenges singular caregiver models and encourages social work scholars and practitioners to reimagine caregiving and policy frameworks for populations impacted by global migration. Suitable for a doctoral research stage, the theoretical depth here offers a foundation to inspire subsequent empirical studies or practice-based projects.



Ultimately, this work upholds a social justice commitment by illuminating the structural forces—such as labor inequities—that drive parental migration and, consequently, family separation. In doing so, it aims to inform and energize future-oriented social work practice that champions equity and cultural responsiveness on a global scale.

Justice Hargrove, MSW Student

Congratulations to Justice Hargrove, Recipient of the 2025 Board of Governors Graduating medal.

Justice was awarded at the 2025 Spring Convocation ceremony. This is a wonderful achievement, Justice. Well done!

Award Criteria:

Convocation Awards | Student Awards and Financial Aid

Current for 2024-25

One medal is allocated to each AAU to be awarded to the students with the highest academic standing as defined in the criteria set out below. One medal is allocated to the General Arts programs, one to the General Social Sciences programs, and one to the General Science program to be awarded to the students with highest academic standing in each of these three general program areas as defined in the criteria set out below. Additional medals could be awarded at the discretion of the Dean, in consultation with the Provost.

Medalists are judged on their total academic performance at the University of Windsor. Students must have completed at least twenty semester courses or equivalent required in their program at the University of Windsor (with the exception of the Faculty of Education). Students will be ranked by major average and must achieve at least an 83% cumulative average and major average. Both full-time and part-time students are eligible for consideration. Graduates from the previous Fall Convocation will be considered for medals issued at the following Spring Convocation. For programs where no major average is calculated (such as General programs), students will be ranked by cumulative average, and must achieve a cumulative average of at least 83%.

Assigned. No application required.

Effective 2025-26 (Spring 2026 Convocation), there is a proposal currently being discussed to combine the medals for both general Arts & Humanities programs, and general Social Science programs to offer one medal for the student with the highest standing across all general programs within FAHSS.

Carrie Vanderform, MSWwp Student

Carrie recently completed her placement with the Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation team.

“Change has to happen in healthcare for Indigenous people,” says Vanderform, who joined Niagara Health’s Labour and Delivery, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Children’s Health units as a social worker in 2023.

“Being part of the Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation team gave me the opportunity to deepen my understanding of how change is already happening – and the path that still has to be travelled.”

Read more at ‘Reconciliation is everyone’s responsibility:’ Niagara Health social worker deepens commitment to Indigenous health - Niagara Health News, Updates & Publications.

Mehak Warring, BSW Student

Wondering is the Beginning of Wisdom 💛

On March 22nd, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the 2025 We SPARK Health Research Conference—an inspiring gathering where professionals from diverse disciplines united under the theme: Igniting Discovery, Living Better.

Under the guidance of Dr. Jayashree Mohanty and alongside an amazing team of researchers, Tori Lewis, Ammar El Hajj, and Justice Hargrove, we had the privilege of participating, presenting, and, most importantly, learning. Honourable mention to Dr. Betty Barrett and Dr. Wendy Aujla, who were unable to attend but have been making important contributions to the project and research.

This conference marked a major milestone for me: my very first academic conference and research presentation. Our team submitted an abstract and presented a research poster on a meaningful mixed-methods study exploring Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Specifically, we’re examining how both service providers and survivors experienced and navigated IPV during the COVID-19 pandemic in India, South Africa and Canada, a topic that demands deep awareness, compassionate care, and sustained advocacy.

Preparing for this presentation was truly a journey of growth. I developed a deeper understanding of the research process, honed my knowledge translation skills, and engaged in critical reflection on how systemic barriers continue to shape survivors’ access to support. Sharing our work with fellow researchers, practitioners, and community members and receiving their thoughtful feedback was both motivating and a learning opportunity.

This experience reminded me of why I chose the path of social work. Being surrounded by individuals so deeply committed to change, equity, and healing reaffirmed my passion for bridging the gap between research and practice. It strengthened my resolve to uplift voices that are often overlooked and to advocate for systems that are more inclusive and responsive. I left the conference feeling empowered, full of new questions, and more inspired than ever to keep growing. 

S.W.S.A. (Social Work Student Association) 2024-2025

Thank you to S.W.S.A. for all your hard work this year. SWSA does amazing work and events in the School. Here is the wonderful team:

SWSA Board of Directors:

President – Aaron Bergeron

Hello U Windsor School of Social Work! My name is Aaron Bergeron, and I will be your SWSA President for the 2024-2025 academic year. I am very excited to be taking on this role and have big plans for this year! I am a Windsor native and have spent the better part of my 40 years on this earth working and living in this community.

I am also a strong advocate for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. I have spent many years working to help make sure those in the 2SLGBTQI+ community have their voices heard and I look forward to continuing that fight here for all of you. So, if you have any questions about Windsor, about the social work program, or even about life in general I am here for you. I have started a new process this year of offering office hours on Thursday nights from 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm in the SWSA office at the downtown campus (Room 104 on the main floor right across from the elevators).

The world is on fire right now and we, as social workers, will be a big part of putting it back together. We can only do that however, if we take care of each other and our selves first. So come to office hours and chat with us, or do some colouring, or eat some candy. We’ve got your back and together we will rise to make this community brighter and stronger. See you out there!

Vice President/CYC Representative – Julia Pagano

Hi folx, my name is Julia (she/her) and I am so excited to be this year's Vice-President & Child and Youth Care (CYC) Transfer Representative for SWSA! I am a Lambton College CYC graduate that has transferred into my 4th year of Bachelor of Social Work here at University of Windsor to further my education. My long-term goal is to work with youth struggling with mental health challenges within the hospital or clinical setting. 



I know how overwhelming it can be making such a big step, so I am passionate about easing that stress for all of you! I am here as an advocate for those on a different education/career path, specifically those with CYC roots. I currently volunteer at U of Windsor's Pride Center and attend classes on both the main and downtown campuses. So, when you see me around, say hi!

Remember to practice self-care and take care, 

Julia Pagano, Vice-President & CYC Graduate

4th year BSW Student

First Year Representative – Zizi Ohai

Hello, my name is Zizi Ohia, and I am a first-year BSW student at the University of Windsor. I'm very pleased to be a part of organizations like the Social Work Student Association and help to make a better community and school environment.

I plan to pursue a specialization in clinical and educational social work. I am really passionate about advocating for the rights of all people, but especially black and Indigenous peoples. I have so much to offer, and I can't wait to represent and advocate for first-year BSW students.

Second Year Representative – Angela Dagati

Hi everyone! My name is Angela Dagati, and I’m thrilled to be your second year representative for SWSA! My pronouns are she/her, and I have a strong commitment to empowering others and making a meaningful impact in our community. A bit about my background: I graduated from the Social Service Work program at St. Clair College, which led me to work in long-term care as a recreation aide and I worked closely with the behavioral support team.

My passion for social work is driven by a profound desire to assist individuals in navigating their challenges and to empower them to discover their own voices. I firmly believe that everyone deserves compassion and understanding, and I am committed to furthering my education so I can make a significant difference in people’s lives. This year, I look forward to connecting with all of you and am excited about the opportunities for growth and collaboration this school year.

Let’s make it a successful and enjoyable journey together!

Third Year Representative – Meighan Mann

Greetings BSW classmates,

My name is Meighan Mann (she/her), and I am honoured to serve as your 3rd-year representative for the Social Work Students' Association (SWSA) for the 2024-25 academic year. I would like to extend an invitation to each of you to reach out with your thoughts and suggestions regarding initiatives within our School of Social Work and the SWSA.

I am deeply passionate about mental health and social justice, and I look forward to collaborating with you to foster meaningful discussions and events throughout the school year. Please feel free to contact me with any concerns or ideas you wish to share. Together, let us strive for a successful and impactful year ahead.

Fourth Year Representative - Emma Wright

Hello everyone! My name is Emma Wright (She/Her), and I am the fourth year student representative for SWSA! I am currently undergoing my field placement at Erie Shores HealthCare. Once I graduate with my Bachelor of Social Work I hope to continue my education into the Master of Social Work program.

Throughout the years I’ve found a passion for the geriatric population and end of life care. In the future, I hope to utilize my social work degree in helping those navigate the later stages of life. Thanks for listening!

Treasurer – Mary Pallisco

My name is Mary Pallisco, and I am currently in my fourth year of the Bachelor of Social Work program with a minor in Psychology. In addition to this, I am also a teaching assistant at the university.  A fun fact about myself is I am an avid crocheter and love all things artistic! I am very grateful to have the opportunity to be part of SWSA this year as the Treasurer chair.

With this role, I plan on representing the interests and perspectives of all social work students and contributing to a very memorable year! I think it’s important for students to have an equal voice, and I plan to advocate for all social work students. I look forward to the opportunity to support you through this next school year!"

Disabilities Studies Representative – Anna Jagoe

Hey everyone!

My name is Anna Jagoe, and I am your Disability Studies (Double Major) Representative for SWSA for the 2024-2025 academic year. I am currently in my 4th year of the Bachelor of Social Work and Disability Studies program and am completing my placement at the Learning Disabilities Association of Windsor-Essex County.

As an individual who lives with a physical disability, I am passionate about advocating for accessibility and inclusion within our community. My experiences have shaped my

understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, and I am committed to continuing my education, as well as promoting awareness and supporting initiatives that enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Minister of External Affairs – Caitlyn Hoogsteen

Hello everyone! My name is Caitlin Hoogsteen and I am your Minister of External Affairs for the 2024-2025 school year! I am in my fourth year at the University of Windsor for Bachelor’s of Social Work, and I am interested in pursuing my Masters of Social Work after graduation. I am interested in working in the criminal justice system and working in policy in the future.

As your Minister of External Affairs I look forward to getting to know many of you this year. If you have any questions or need support please don’t hesitate to reach out!

OASW Representative – Brooke Castellan

As a third-year social work student, I am happy to represent both the OASW and SWSA, representing social workers and aspiring social workers. I am here for you, whether that is you needing direction within the social work community or needing a laugh, reach out to me.

You can join me on some of my self-care activities like walking, drinking coffee, or colouring with smelly markers.

Minister of Social Affairs – Riley Haskell

Hi! My name is Riley Haskell (She/Her), and I'm a 3rd year student in the BSW program. I am the 2024/25 Minister of Social Affairs. I am a huge advocate for mental health and because of this my goal this year is to make everyone in our program feel included and have a sense of belonging during their time at UWindsor! I’m super friendly and love meeting new people so if you see me around don’t be afraid to come say hi!

Women and Gender Studies Representative – Emma Logan

Hi everyone!

My name is Emma (she/her), and I am this year's Women and Gender Studies Representative. I am currently in my final year of the Social Work and Women and Gender Studies program. Taking on a double major can be overwhelming, especially in today's world. Balancing schoolwork, jobs, extracurricular activities, friends, family, and our own mental health and well-being is impossible to do by ourselves. But luckily, we don't have to do it on our own!

If you are ever struggling, need advice, or need some direction, I'm here to help. Never hesitate to reach out, it's my pleasure to help you all during this major time of your lives!

A Special Mention to Secretary - Meghan Tavares

Updates from Sharon Munro, Social Work Librarian

Leddy Library services and resources for various patron groups

The Leddy Library has web pages outlining services and resources for various patron groups:

·       Services for Alumni

·       Services for Distance Education Students

·       Services for Faculty and Postdoctoral Fellows

·       Services for Graduate Students

·       Services for International Students

·       Services for Undergraduates

Services for Researchers

The Leddy Library has a Services for Researchers web page dedicated to outlining some specialized services for researchers. It includes information about:

·       Archives and Special Collections

·       Digital Scholarship

·       Publishing and Research Support

·       Research Data and Statistical Services

·       Copyright

Journal Publishing through the Leddy Library

The Leddy Library “…provides software, support and hosting services for academic journals, scholarly monographs and conferences that manage the process from submission to publication” (https://ojs.uwindsor.ca/). Current journals include:

·       Critical Social Work

·       Rampike Magazine

·       Journal of Critical Race, Indigeneity, and decolonization

·       The Great Lakes Journal of Undergraduate History

·       UWill Discover Journal

·       Journal of Teaching and Learning

·       Canadian Journal of Practical Philosophy

·       The Windsor Review

·       Informal Logic

·       PhaenEx

·       Windsor Yearbook of Access to Justice

·       Collected Essays on Learning and Teaching (CELT)

·       Journal of Emerging Forensic Sciences Research

·       The RAACES Review

·       Transnational Criminal Law Review

·       Journal of Canadian Baseball

·       Applied Multivariate Research

·       Windsor Review of Legal and Social Issues

To get access to these journals and for more information about the services that the Leddy Library can offer for journal publishing, see: Journal Publishing and you can also email scholarship@uwindsor.ca

Summer Movie Afternoon at Leddy Library

Leddy Library is hosting a Summer Movie Afternoon on Thursday, June 26^th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Collaboratory (main floor of the Leddy Library, just behind the café). The movies will be announced shortly and there will be popcorn! See: Summer Movie Afternoon for more information.

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.