Mary E. Garrison, LCSW, ACSW, Professor of Social Work
Hello and Happy July 2019!
I wanted to introduce myself as your new East Central District Chair. My name is Mary Garrison and I am beginning a two-year term as your new Chair following in the amazing footsteps of Kenna Dunlap Johnson - thanks for all of your great work as our Chair these past few years Kenna - we appreciate you!
Some of you may recall my name as I was the District Chair about 4 years ago and so this is "round two" for me - I loved the Chair role and wanted to take it on again to be able to connect more with my incredible social work colleagues. Just so you get to know me a bit, here is a short bio...I am a Professor of Social Work at Millikin University (starting my 15th year), a LCSW (and ACSW) and consultant with 20+ years of experience in mental health services, policy and advocacy with expertise in ethics, cultural competency and homelessness. I serve as the Homeless PIT Coordinator for Macon County and also serve on the Macon County CoC Governing Board. I serve on the Good Samaritan Inn Board (President), Youth Advocate Board, Kennedy Forum Illinois Board, NASWIL Board and am a Delegate Assembly member for NASW. and am a clinical supervisor for clinicians seeking licensure. In 2017, I co-authored a book entitled: "Your Playbook for Beating Depression: Essential Strategies for Managing and Living with Depression".
I am excited to bring events to our District and I welcome your input and suggestions on what you would like to see to enhance your skill set as well as networking event opportunities. Please stayed tuned for upcoming events in the next few months. Here is some news from NASWIL:
Social Work Awards: DEADLINE - July 31, 2019 - the call for nomiations for our annual social work awards - please consider nominating someone
2019 NASW-Illinois Statewide Conference: Nov 5-7, 2019 at the Westin North Shore in Wheeling, IL - I hope you will join us at this great event!
Best,
Mary