The University of Alabama School of Social Work will celebrate 60 years of service, education, and legendary change with two special events on Oct. 16 and 17 in Tuscaloosa.
“These events will bring together alumni and friends to celebrate the enduring legacy and impact of the UA School of Social Work,” said Dean Schnavia Smith Hatcher. “We hope you will make plans to join us here at the Capstone and be part of this unforgettable celebration.”
60th Celebration
The festivities begin with a 60th Anniversary Celebration, held at the Bryant Conference Center in the Sellers Auditorium on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The event will celebrate 60 years since the School was established, featuring a dinner and a keynote address by Melissa Harris-Perry, a professor, award-winning speaker, and media host. Guests attending this celebration will also receive a copy of the School’s 60th Anniversary Commemorative Book, which highlights former deans, donors, alums, and others who have played a role in fostering legendary change at the School. It will be a momentous occasion honoring the School’s six decades of preparing social workers and continuing to spark change, under the theme “The Legacy Continues: 60 Years of Legendary Change.”
Hall of Fame
On Friday, Oct. 17, the School will host its annual Alabama Social Work Hall of Fame induction ceremony from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The University Club. This year, three inductees will be recognized for their contributions to the field of social work:
- Sandra Royster Hopkins, LMSW — honored for her decades of advocacy, innovation, and mentorship, including her leadership at DCH Employee Assistance Program and her community impact through grant writing, education, and counseling.
- David E. Gay Jr. — recognized for his barrier-breaking leadership as the first African American CEO of Bryce Hospital and Taylor Hardin Secure Medical Facility, as well as his continued service through Whatley Health Services and decades of civic engagement.
- Lorraine Bedsole Tunstall — remembered as Alabama’s first child labor inspector and the founding director of the state’s Child Welfare Department in 1923. Her legacy lives on through the Lorraine Bedsole Tunstall Scholarship, which continues to support UA MSW students.
