FROM THE OFFICE
OF THE DEAN

Dear GSS Community,

It is with great pride that I introduce the latest edition of The Social Worker, Fordham’s Graduate School of Social Service (GSS) magazine. Our magazine provides an opportunity to celebrate the many ways GSS community members represent the profound purpose and possibilities of the social work profession.

In these pages, you will find inspiring stories of our accomplished alumni who have embarked on diverse career paths, creating meaningful change in their communities and society. From integrated healthcare to school social work, program management to community organizing, our alumni are making a tangible impact in the lives of individuals and families. They serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating the power of a social work education and the extraordinary difference one person can make.

Equally compelling are the stories of alumni and students who chose to transition from previous professions to pursue a career in social work. They share their very personal journeys and why they chose a professional path that better aligns with their values, ignites their passion, and fulfills their desire for purpose. Their narratives embody the transformative nature of social work, showing how it can provide a deeply meaningful path for those seeking to make a difference.

This edition also captures the essence of this year's graduation celebration, a milestone moment for our newest graduates who are at the very beginning of their journeys as social work professionals. As they step into the world armed with knowledge, compassion, and a commitment to social justice, we are filled with pride and excitement. They represent the next generation of change-makers equipped to tackle the challenges of our time and shape a brighter future for us all.

As we reflect on the incredible opportunities and purpose that define the field of social work, we are reminded of the core values that drive us: service, compassion, and a dedication to social justice. Together, we stand united in our mission to create a more just and equitable society.

I invite you to dive into the stories within these pages, and may they inspire you to explore or reimagine the countless possibilities that a career in social work holds. Let us continue to forge a path of opportunity and purpose, nurturing a community of social work professionals who transform lives and strengthen the fabric of our society.

All the best,

Debra M. McPhee, Ph.D.
Dean
Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service