Excellence in Social Work Practice Awards recognize Master’s students in the Pitt School of Social Work who demonstrate exemplary commitment to professional development. The awards are given to students completing specialized study and displaying outstanding potential as social workers. The generosity of alumni and friends of the School make the awards possible, including a small monetary recognition.
Anyone may begin the nomination process—student, peer, faculty member, staff member, or practicum / task supervisor.
Awards for Direct Practice MSW students (Qualifying characteristics are noted after the name):
- Dr. Lynn Adkins Quasi Endowment – Outstanding performance in the classroom
- Elizabeth C. Evans Resource Fund – Outstanding performance by a nontraditional student
- George and Sylvia Plutchok Student Resource Fund – (1 award) Outstanding efforts to promote diversity, equity, & inclusion and (2 awards) Outstanding performance in practicum
- James McDonald Endowed Fund – Outstanding Efforts to learn about and demonstrate interprofessional practice
- Kim and Larry Davis Student Research Fund – Outstanding ability to engage in research-informed practice / practice informed research
- Darrell P. Wheeler Student Resource Award -- Outstanding Efforts in Service to School, University, and/or Community
Awards for COSA MSW students:
- Charlotte J. Dunmore Endowed Fund
- School of Social Work Endowment for COSA Students
- Tracy M. Soska Endowed Fund
Timeline:
- December 9: Nominations open
- January 10: Nominations close
- Early February: Notification of awardees
Other information:
- Nominees must have completed their generalist course of study
- Nominees must be enrolled in the spring term of 2025
- MSW students on all campuses are eligible
- If you self-nominate or nominate a peer, you will be asked to identify a faculty member, staff member, or practicum / task supervisor to support the nomination
- Nominees will be asked to upload a recent resume
- Awards may be used to cover educational expenses, including but not limited to books, lab fees, travel, or other educational expenses
Nomination Form for DP Students.
Nomination form for COSA Students.
Please contact COSA Specialization Chair Mary Ohmer (mlo51@pitt.edu ) or Direct Practice Specialization Chair Beth Mulvaney (eam65@pitt.edu ) if you have questions.