2025 NASW-Illinois Chapter Statewide Awards

Now more than ever, social workers are being called upon to turn their compassion into

action—helping communities navigate the urgent challenges of our time. From mass deportations of migrants and continued attacks on LGBTQIA2+ individuals to threats to reproductive rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, social workers stand at the forefront of change. Across Illinois and the nation, they are leading the response to the mental health and substance use crisis and addressing the chronic income inequality that contributes to rising homelessness.

In alignment with the 2025 National Professional Social Work Month theme, “Social Work: Compassion + Action,” the National Association of Social Workers, Illinois Chapter (NASW-IL) is proud to recognize two outstanding Illinois social workers whose leadership and dedication exemplify the values of the profession.

Many thanks to this year’s NASW-Illinois Chapter Awards Committee members as well: Staci Knox and Danielle Monks.

Congratulations to this year's 2025 NASW-Illinois Chapter Statewide Award winners!

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT: Darby J. Morhardt, PhD, LCSW

Press Release

Darby J. Morhardt, PhD (Loyola University Chicago, 2013), LCSW (she/her), is professor at the Mesulam Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. There she directs the Outreach, Recruitment, and Engagement Core, Psychosocial Initiatives, and Miller Social Work Fellowship in Neurocognitive Disorders. Her research includes the experience of individuals and families living with dementia, psychosocial interventions, and community engagement to address inequities in dementia education, awareness, and research. Appointed to Illinois Alzheimer’s Disease Advisory Committee, she contributes to Alzheimer’s Disease State Plan and co-founded the Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Dr. Morhardt serves on the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Elder Law to more effectively address the needs and legal issues of older adults.

SOCIAL WORKER OF THE YEAR: Franshandra Owens, MSW, LCSW

Press Release

Franshandra Owens, MSW (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2018), LCSW (she/her) brings over a decade of experience in mental health to her practice. She currently serves as clinician in the SIU School of Medicine’s Survivor Recovery Center where she supports individuals who have experienced recent crime-based trauma, helping them to reduce or

eliminate PTSD symptoms and rebuild their lives.

The NASW-Illinois Chapter celebrates this year’s honorees whose leadership, compassion,

and advocacy strengthen the social work profession and the communities they serve.