Panel to discuss social work in government

Three social workers holding office in different levels of government will discuss ethical social work practice in their positions for the panel event,  “Bringing the Code to the Ballot: Social Work Practice in Elected Office.” 

This event will occur on Zoom from 12-2 p.m. on Sept. 24.

“These social workers who serve as elected officials—at the state, county, and local levels—will share insights forged through their years of service as both government leaders and professional social workers,” University of Kansas School of Social Welfare professor of practice Melinda Lewis said. “They’ll discuss the role the NASW Code of Ethics played in motivating them to run for office, how their social work values and ethics guide their decision-making in office, and the social work knowledge and skills they apply to navigate disputes with elected colleagues who approach challenges from other perspectives.”

This event is free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. Learn more and register.

Bringing the Code to the Ballot: Social Work Practice in Elected Office

Wednesday, September 24

12 - 2 p.m.

Online event via Zoom

Free

2.0 Ethics CEUs

Speakers:

·        Suzanne Wikle, member of the Kansas House of Representatives, social worker, and advocate for policies that advance economic, health and racial justice.

·        Becky Fast, Johnson County Commissioner. In the past, Fast has directed public policy research at the University of Kansas and worked with the Kansas legislature to evaluate the state's aging and disability programs.

·        Carole Cadue-Blackwood, liaison to the United States Attorney General’s Office for the Western District of Missouri Department of Justice Community Coordination Unit, Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and enrolled member of the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas.

“This session will offer wisdom for social workers considering elected office, those curious about the ethical dilemmas encountered in less common practice contexts, and all who hope to see social work priorities elevated in public policymaking and political discourse in the United States,” Lewis said.

Social workers who attend this event can receive two ethics continuing education credits.