NASW Alabama

Torchbearer Scholarship Press Release 2015

The National Association of Social Workers- Alabama Chapter announces the winners of the 2015 Torchbearer Scholarships are  Jennifer Chadwick of Verbena, AL and Jacy Smith of Oxford, AL. The Torchbearer Scholarships are competitive scholarships based on academic excellence, a written essay and application, and commitment to excellence in social work’s values and skills, recognizing the legacy of Alabama’s Social Work Pioneers over the last century in developing leadership within the profession and doing life-changing work to enhance individuals and communities.  The National Association of Social Workers is the largest professional organization in the nation and the world devoted to social work practice. Developed in 2013 by the chapter Board of Directors in conjunction with the national organization, the NASW Alabama Torchbearer Scholarships recognize one MSW student and one BSW student attending accredited social work programs within Alabama to encourage their ongoing professional development. The BSW scholarship is the first of its kind in the nation by a chapter to support undergraduate social work students pursue their careers.  

Ms. Jennifer Chadwick, a 2015 graduate of the University of Montevallo, is currently pursuing an MSW degree at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa.  She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers , Phi Alpha  Social Work Honor Society, and Psi Chi Psychology Honor Society.

Ms. Jacy Smith will graduate with her BSW from Jacksonville State University in August 2015. She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society, the JSU President’s List and has been a foster parent instructor for Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes.

The scholarships will be awarded at the August 2015 board meeting of NASW Alabama in Montgomery.

Note: Press Release should be sent to JSU News, UM News, UA News, the social work program directors (Dr. Maureen Newton of Jacksonville State University,  Dr. Jason Newell of Montevallo, Dr. Tyrone Chiwai Cheng of Alabama), Phi Alpha Honor Society,  The Anniston Star, and the papers serving Tuscaloosa and Alabaster. )