1988

2006: Famous Five Foundation

2008: Randy Harris & Gayla at Pulse of Social Work

ceremony

2007: Dr. Harvey Weingarten, Gayla, & Dr.

Barrie Strafford, the donor of the Faculty’s

first research chair

2003: Gayla with Dr. Penny Ford

2005: “Alberta’s Promise” little red wagon 1999: Gayla with Dr. Kim Zapf’s alter ego, the Great Takhini

Gayla Rogers

University of Calgary Faculty of Social Work’s first female dean reflects on her career, page 20

1978

ADVOCATEA L B E R T A   C O L L E G E   O F   S O C I A L   W O R K E R S

THE

Volume 35, Issue 1, spring 2010

www.acsw.ab.ca

A day in the life: Gayla Rogers: Faculty’s first female dean reflects on her career page 20 Book & movie reviews: Push and Precious: Two experiences that would be a shame to miss page 16 Letters: Blaming the victims page 18 Cindy Blackstock: It’s not intentions—it’s results that count page 24

The Advocate • Spring 20102

THE ADVOCATE EDITORIAL POLICY: The Advocate seeks to serve as a “meeting place” for Alberta social workers by publishing information about social work research, theory, practice, and education; professional affairs; social issues; the work of the College; books, journals, and other media of inter-est to social workers; continuing education and job opportunities; and the comings and goings of Alberta social workers. Members and the public are welcome to submit articles, stories, anecdotes, poems, thoughts and ideas. Letters to the editor, announcements, cartoons, artwork, and pictures are also welcome. The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit submitted material. Please call the ACSW office for a copy of “Writing for the Advocate” before submitting any material. Publication does not imply endorsement by the College.

The Advocate is published quarterly. Deadlines are JANUARY 15 for the SPRING issue (March publication), APRIL 15 for SUMMER (June publication), JULY 15 for FALL (September publication), and OCTOBER 15 for WINTER (December publication).

ALL SUBMISSIONS: The Advocate, ACSW, #550, 10707 - 100 Avenue, Edmonton AB T5J 3M1

ATTN: Lori Sigurdson • E-MAIL: acswpac@acsw.ab.ca • PHONE: (780) 421-1167 • FAX: 421-1168.

in t

his is

sue

COVER STORY

A day in the life: Gayla Rogers .......................... Joan Marie Galat ........................................... 20

FEATURES

Letters: Blaming the victims ............................. Butch Nutter ................................................ 18

Cindy Blackstock: It’s not intentions—

it’s results that count ................................... Joan Marie Galat ........................................... 24

NEWS

From our desk to yours .................................... Lori Sigurdson ................................................ 3

The Faculty Beat: Yahoo! A news round-up

from the Faculty of Social Work ..................... Lynne Dulaney ................................................ 6

Reviews: Push and Precious: Two experiences

that would be a shame to miss ......................... Peter Smyth ................................................. 16

Congratulations to the ACSW 2009 Bursary recipients .............................................................. 19

REGULAR FEATURES

President's report ............................................ Bob Johnson .................................................. 8

Executive Director’s report ................................ Rod Adachi ..................................................... 9

Ethics in action: Developing a new code

of ethics for Alberta..................................... Alison MacDonald .......................................... 10

Diploma Dialogue: Red Deer College

Social Work Program turns 40 ........................ Brenda Joyce ................................................ 12

Private Practice: Are daffodils roses? .................. Audrey Ferber ............................................... 14

The lighter side of social work... ....................... James Grasdal ............................................... 15

Communication Corner ...................................... Joan Marie Galat ........................................... 15

New RSWs ...................................................... Membership as of January 26, 2010 ................. 19

For Your Information ....................................... Announcements ............................................ 28

All material with bylines is ©2010 by author. ACSW retains copyright when no author is listed.

The AdvocateVolume 35, Issue 1, Spring 2010

Published by:The Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW)

550 10707 100 AVE NWEdmonton AB T5J 3M1Phone: (780) 421-1167

Toll-free in Alberta: 1-800-661-3089Fax: (780) 421-1168 or toll-free 1-866-874-8931

E-Mail: acsw@acsw.ab.caWebsite: www.acsw.ab.ca

Executive Director & Registrar: Rod Adachi, MSW, RSWacswexd@acsw.ab.ca

Associate Registrar: Alison MacDonald, PhD (Cand), RSWacswreg@acsw.ab.ca

Professional Affairs Coordinator: Lori Sigurdson, MSW, RSW, acswpac@acsw.ab.ca

Coordinator, Finance and Administration: Gladys Smecko

Registration Coordinator: Brenda Gross

Executive Assistant to the Executive Director: Kim Chiles

Registration Secretary: Monica VasconezRegulatory Secretary: Desiree Hurst

Administrative Secretary: Nearint NeamPromotions Coordinator: Ilona Cardinal, BA, BFA

Competency Secretary: Jennifer Catt

ACSW Council:President: Bob Johnson, MSSW, RSW

Vice President: Elaine Spencer, MSW, RSWSecretary: Terry Wilson, BSW, RSW

Treasurer: Bonita Decaire, MSW, RSWMembers: Derek Chewka, BSW, RSW

Tera Dahl-Lang, MSW, RSWRichard Gregory, MSW, RSW

Barry Hall, PhD, RSWJolene Losness, MSW, RSW

Aboriginal Committee Representative: Verna Wittigo, BSW, RSW

Public Members: Marija Bicanic, LLMLynne Davies, BScN, MEd

Austin Mardon, CM Ralph Westwood, Dip Mental Deficiency Nursing, BEd, MEd CASW Representative: Emily Drzymala, PhD, RSW

The Advocate is published quarterly for members of ACSW and other interested parties.

Editorial Board: Papiya Das, MSW, RSW (Chair)Duane Burton, BSW, MEd, RSW

Eugene Ip, MSW, RSWLeslie MacKinnon, BSW, RSW

Anne Marie McLaughlin, PhD, RSWElaine Paras, MSW, RSWPeter Smyth, BSW, RSW

Trudy Wilson, SW Diploma, RSW

Editor: Joan Marie GalatProduction Editor: Jena SnyderDesign: Kyle Loranger Design

Advertising space is available; please call the ACSW office for details or to place an ad. The Editorial Board

reserves the right to reject any advertising.

SUMMER 2010 ISSUE DEADLINE: APRIL 15, 2010

Canadian subscriptions are $24/year (outside Canada: $24 US/year) Please notify ACSW

office immediately of any address changes.

ISSN 0847 - 2890PM NO. 40050109

RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO550 10707 100 AVE NWEDMONTON AB T5J 3M1

in the news

3Volume 35 • Issue 1

From our desk to yoursby Lori Sigurdson, MSW, RSWACSW Professional Affairs Coordinator

Lori Sigurdson

Holiday eventsArea Coordinators hosted several events during the holiday

season. Slave Lake, Calgary, Medicine Hat, Edmonton, Rocky

Mountain House and St. Albert social workers enjoyed

connections with colleagues.

In Calgary, President Bob Johnson addressed over 100 social

workers at the Village Park Inn. Elaine Spencer, Vice President,

spoke to 150 social workers at the Santa Maria Goretti

Community Centre in Edmonton. Rod Adachi, Executive

Director, spoke to social workers in the Slave Lake region.

Holiday Social Events: Bob Johnson in Calgary and Elaine Spencer in EdmontonCalgary Holiday Social Event - MCs Heather Johnson and Gloria O’Donnell

Calgary Holiday Social Event - Group photo of Calgary area coordinators

Back row, l to R: Heather Johnson (just before she had her baby—see page 4),

Joanne Boley, Rob Halfyard, Gloria O’Donnell, Meadow Dann

Front row: Wayne Carrier and Lori Sigurdson

Crystal Rose, Area Coordinator and winner of door

prize at the Edmonton Holiday Social Event

Linda McFalls, another door prize winner at

the Edmonton Holiday Social Event

Edmonton Area Coordinator and MC, Lina Filomeno-

Melchionna

in t

he n

ews

The Advocate • Spring 20104

From our desk to yoursContinued from page 3

Continued on page 5

Member news

Calgary area coordinator Heather Johnson gave birth to a baby girl on December 17, 2009. Alya Renee weighed 6

pounds, 12 ounces. Now Liam has a little sister.

Annabelle Kootenay, MSW, RSW, received the Region 7 Aboriginal

Alberta Children Service Worker

of the Year.

Annabelle is a band member of

the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation

near Gunn. She has worked as

a foster care support worker.

She is a bridge between cultures

supporting understanding and

respect between non-aboriginal

caregivers and members of the

aboriginal community.

Congratulations, Annabelle!

Linda Nycholat, BSW, RSW, passed away suddenly and unex-

pectantly on September 2, 2009.

Linda worked at Alberta Justice

as a Family Court Counsellor.

She was respected and admired

by colleagues and clients alike for

her dedication to justice and her

adherence to social work values

and ethics.

She is remembered fondly.

Line Brunelle, SW Dip, RSW, is doing her BSW field placement at

ACSW.

She is working with Lori Sigurdson,

Professional Affairs Coordinator, for

the winter term.

Lunch is served!The social work students of the University of Calgary,

Edmonton Division, hosted a lunch for inner city residents as

part of the annual Social Action Day on January 18. Students

served chili to 150 people. Besides providing direct services,

students learned advocacy techniques such as letter writing.

Andrea Toledo organized the event.

Above: Client at the annual Social Action Day lunch, with Anjulie Talwar (second

from right) and Amanda Priddle (far right).

Above: Social Action Day Lunch

Linda Nycholat

Line Brunelle

Annabelle Kootenay

5Volume 35 • Issue 1

in the news

From our desk to yoursContinued from page 4

National Social Work Week in AlbertaMarch 1 – 7, 2010Social Workers Speaking Up: Poverty Costs

2010 ACSW Annual ConferenceMarch 18 - 20, 2010Shaw Conference Centre, Edmonton Alberta

Social Workers:Inspired to Serve Humanity

Social Work WeekMarch 1 - 7, 2010

Social Workers Speaking up: Poverty costs

Al

be

rt

a

Co

ll

eg

e

of

S

oc

ia

l

Wo

rk

er

s

c a r i n g

c h i l d r e n e n v i r o n m e n t

s o l a c e

Social workers daily see the costs of poverty—emotional,

physical, social, and financial. If we want to ensure the health

and well-being of all people living in Alberta, poverty

reduction is the best starting point. Poverty costs people their

physical, emotional, social, and mental well-being.

During National Social Work Week, social workers call upon

citizens to recognize the impacts of poverty and to support its

eradication.

Check our website for more information regarding activities.

2010 ACSW Conference March 18 -20 Social Workers Inspired to Service HumanityOur conference is almost here! Cindy Blackstock, PhD, is our keynote speaker.

Check out our interview with Cindy on page 24.

Diana Gibson, Research Director for the Parkland Institute is our Friday

luncheon speaker. Diana will be

unveiling our Social Policy

Framework as part of our Closing the

Disparity Gap Campaign. Be sure to

register for this event.

Another don’t-miss event is the political panel on Friday

evening. Elected officials will be commenting on our

framework and answering questions from social workers.

Registrants who check in on Thursday night are eligible for

several door prizes (i.e. free hotel accommodation, free 2011

conference registration, and many more). After checking in,

join the fun listening to musical groups Red Power Squad and

the Urban Coyotes.

E-Mail NoticesYou may have noticed that the ACSW

is using e-mail as a quick, cost-effective

method of communicating with the

membership. At present, we are using

your Employer E-Mail for initial contact,

but we would like to establish a Primary

E-mail for group/mass e-mail contact.

Please ensure that the e-mail address you

prefer is listed as your primary email.

If you do not wish to be contacted

through e-mail, you should “unsub-

scribe” from the service.

Please contact Monica at

monica@acsw.ab.ca to update this address. n

Changes to the Protection for Persons in Care Act

The Protection for Persons in Care Act (Act) has been re-written to better protect adults from abuse while they are receiving care or support services funded by the Government of Alberta.

The re-written Act is expected to be proclaimed in the spring of 2010.

Some of the changes to the Act include: A timeline for reporting abuse. A new definition of abuse that focuses on serious harm. New duties for service providers and individuals who provide care or

support services. New compliance requirements. New established roles of a complaints officer and director. New offences and an appeal process.

To view the Act online go to www.qp.alberta.ca and choose Laws Online.

To purchase a copy of the new Act contact the Queen’s Printer Bookstore at 780-427-4952 (To call toll-free, first dial 310-0000)

As further information becomes available, it will be posted at www.seniors.alberta.ca

The Advocate • Spring 20106

in t

he n

ews

The Faculty BeatLynne Dulaney University of Calgary Faculty of Social Work

Yahoo! A news round-up from the Faculty of Social WorkWhile it is not time for the famous Calgary Stampede yet, it is time for a round-up of people, places and programs from

the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Social Work.

Blue Quills MSW students anticipate convocationIn September 2008, a partnership between the Faculty of

Social Work and Blue Quills First Nations College resulted in

the creation and delivery of an advanced social work degree

focusing on First Nations and Métis community needs in

northern Alberta.

Combining a well-established university program with the

specialized knowledge and cultural programs developed by a

leading First Nations institute has provided students with the

opportunity to contribute to the health and social develop-

ment of First Nations and Métis communities in Alberta.

Nearly two years ago, a cohort of students began their master

of social work journey embracing other ways of knowing,

based in traditional knowledge from the “iyiniw” (first people)

perspective.

Now embedded in the iyiniw ways of knowing, these students

are preparing to practice within their communities. On

June 17, 2010, more than 20 students will celebrate their

convocation at the college. Everyone is welcome to come

and join the festivities. The students are immensely grateful

to the University of Calgary’s Faculties of Social Work and

Graduate Studies, Blue Quills First Nations College, and all

who have supported their learning paths.

Palm trees, sandy beaches, and social workSix BSW students from Lethbridge and four from Calgary

are completing a new group study and senior practicum

placement in Barbados. The group study was designed to give

students an intensive social work delivery experience in a

specific practice setting.

Organized by the Faculty of Social Work’s Murray Fraser

professor of community economic development, Dr. John

Graham, in conjunction with the University of the West

Indies, the innovative program allows participants to consider

the theories and skills used in family and community

development, through first-hand experience living in a village.

Participants stay with local families and engage in volunteer

or practicum work during the program, which runs January

through April.

“The students immersed themselves in a developing country’s

culture for the final academic term of their undergraduate

program in social work,” says Graham. “The skills and

learning garnered from this once-in-a-lifetime experience

truly transforms all students. This group study has great value

in our multicultural country and increasingly international

world.”

Preparing students for the future with Project ProtégéLast November, nine BSW students were accepted into Project

Protégé, an innovative mentorship program run by the City of

Calgary’s Youth Employment Centre. Students were partnered

with city social workers for a five-month term.

The students have been meeting monthly with their mentors

and are able to visit venues such as the agencies and youth

court where the social workers practice. They are able to

access city job postings and volunteer opportunities, as well as

take part in workshops and conferences.

This is the second year for this successful mentorship

program, which began as a partnership between the City

in the news

7Volume 35 • Issue 1

of Calgary and Rocky Mountain College. In addition to

providing students with unique professional development

opportunities, the program enables them to explore career

possibilities with the municipal government—a win-win for

everyone.

Environmental citizenship starts in AlbertaDr. Mishka Lysack, a Faculty of Social Work assistant professor,

is leading a climate change outreach project called Alberta Acts

on Climate Change. In partnership with the Pembina Institute,

Lysack was funded by Canada’s Social Sciences and Humanities

Research Council to increase environmental citizenship with a

specific focus on climate change in Alberta.

Alberta Acts staff currently work on several different programs,

including a community engagement initiative that will include

open dialogue sessions in communities surrounding Calgary.

Residents will identify the climate change solutions that are

appropriate for their community and fit their local context.

The youth engagement initiative will empower youth to

engage their peers on environmental issues.

On March 12, Alberta Acts will host a video conference that

will connect more than 30 communities across Alberta on

climate change. Read the blog at albertaacts.ca.

Can we predict homelessness before it starts?Funded by the Calgary Homeless Foundation, a team of

experts from the Faculty of Social Work developed a unique

screening tool to determine the likelihood of vulnerable

populations experiencing homelessness. It is the first tool ever

developed to examine pre-homelessness. The Homeless Asset

and Risk Tool (HART) was unveiled at a public symposium in

December.

Researchers from the Faculty of Social Work will follow 750

individuals in Calgary over the course of this year, as a pilot

project to predict which are most at-risk of homelessness.

Lead researcher, Dr. Leslie Tutty, headed up a team from

the faculty and the Centre for Social Work Research and

Professional Development, including many whom have

contributed to national studies in this area.

In February 2009, the faculty sponsored the second national

conference on homelessness and housing.

Spirituality’s role in practice and researchThe Canadian Society for Spirituality and Social Work will

host the fifth North American conference on spirituality

and social work at the University of Calgary, June 17 to 19.

Keynote speakers include award-winning Canadian writer

Richard Wagamese and Dr. Alean Al-Krenawi, the Killam

Visiting Scholar at the Faculty of Social Work.

For more information, visit spiritualityandsocialwork.ca.

Social work dean honoured In addition to the honors described in the feature on Gayla

Rogers in this Advocate (page 20), she was also honored as a

founding member and ongoing supporter of the Prairie Child

Welfare Consortium (PCWC). The award was presented by

members of the Consortium at the fifth biannual PCWC

Symposium held in Winnipeg last fall.

Professional development opportunities All programs will be held at the University of Calgary unless

otherwise noted. For more information, call 403-220-3410,

email fswcrd@ucalgary.ca, or visit fsw.ucalgary.ca/pd.

n The essential skills of supervision. Laurence Shulman, MSW,

EdD. May 11-12, Edmonton, and May 13-14, Calgary.

n Getting practical about adult mental health: Assessment and treat-

ment in social work. Laverne Guthrie, MSW, RSW (Clinical),

and Patty Brennen, MSW, RSW. June 10-11.

n Supporting children, teens and families through loss and grief:

Reaffirming and enhancing your practice. Megan Miller, MSW,

RSW; Bev Berg, RSW; and Colleen Clark, MSW, RSW

(Clinical). June 10-11.

n Parenting capacity assessment in child custody cases. Peter Choate,

MSW, RSW (Clinical). June 10-11.

n Using a decolonizing approach to community development within

the Aboriginal community. Sharon Goulet, MSW, RSW, and

Bev Renaud, RSW. June 10.

n Diversity. Hieu Van Ngo, PhD (candidate), and Frances

Boakye, PhD. June 11. n

Lynne Dulaney is the communications consultant for the Faculty of Social Work at

the University of Calgary.

regu

lar

feat

ure

8 The Advocate • Spring 2010

regu

lar

feat

ure

PresidentBob Johnson, MSSW, RSW

Bob JohnsonPresident’s report The New Year continues to bring challenges to the Alberta College of Social Workers. In

addition to job uncertainties and a struggling economy, Albertans face reduced services

while shrinking resources add to social workers’ strain to respond to increasing client

needs.

Last December, as an Alberta Alliance on Mental Illness and

Mental Health (AAMIMH) member, ACSW participated in a

presentation to the Alberta Hospital Edmonton Implementation

Committee on proposed bed closures. The January decision to

reconsider bed closures and develop a province-wide plan for

mental health was welcome news to the AAMIMH, as well as

the numerous other groups and individuals who had voiced

concerns. This outcome underlines the impact of working with

others for a common cause.

ACSW was a prominent supporter of the Public Interest Alberta

Poverty Reduction Campaign in 2009. As a member organization

of both Public Interest Alberta and the Friends of Medicare,

ACSW supports the Join Together Alberta Campaign launched

in January and hopes many of our members participate in the

town hall meetings across the province.

Last year, ACSW contracted with the Parkland Institute to

develop the Disparity Campaign. This project will design a

Social Policy Framework to inform future discussions to

establish a social policy environment that better serves Alberta

citizens. A number of registered social workers were among

participants at symposiums coordinated by Parkland Institute

in Calgary and Edmonton. We look forward to learning

more about this project at the March ACSW conference in

Edmonton.

There has been considerable activity related to the Canadian

Association of Social Workers. A major challenge with our

CASW involvement is the current fee structure for member

provinces and territories. Due to provincial structures and

legislation variations, Alberta’s contribution amounts to a third

of CASWs member revenue. Council has passed a motion

serving notice that this level of funding cannot continue

past September 2010. The fee issue is one of a number of

concerns that launched the operational review of CASW

currently underway.

Council will fully discuss review results when they become

apparent in the next few months, in order to prepare for the

annual meetings with CASW at the end of May.

Over the past year, ACSW has worked with all provincial

social work regulatory bodies in Canada to establish the

Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators (CCSWR).

This progressing work will complement our involvement

with the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), as our

experience with ASWB will lend itself well to our ongoing

work with the CCSWR.

Increasing activities undertaken by ACSW have put more

pressure on our resources, thus requiring council to focus on

its financial responsibilities. In addition to reluctantly approving

a 2010 fee increase, council has reduced the number of

meetings and administrative costs wherever possible.

Every year at this time, we welcome new council members.

I look forward to the new members’ involvement in this

important work. At the same time, we will miss the input

from our retiring members who have given their time to

serve us well. Thank you for your contributions! Also, many

thanks to the remaining council members, those who serve

on our regulatory and membership committees, our valued

area coordinators, and all other members whose voluntary

efforts help make the ACSW a better organization. n

Bob Johnson is the president of ACSW. He can be reached at acsw@acsw.ab.ca.

regular feature

9Volume 35 • Issue 1

Executive Director & RegistrarRod Adachi, MSW, RSW

Rod Adachi

Executive Director’s report Change in Cabinet Ministers

The recent cabinet shuffle resulted in several Alberta government ministerial changes

that significantly impact social workers. The replacement of Janis Tarchuk as Minister of

Children and Youth Services was expected. Yvonne Fritz’s appointment as the new minister

likely heralds further Children and Youth Services changes that will affect how child welfare

services are delivered. ACSW was among a number of voices that had raised concerns about

child welfare, as featured in the fall 2009 issue of the Advocate.

Gene Zwozdesky’s Minister of Health and Wellness

appointment signals a change in how the reorganization of

Alberta Health Services will be managed. Many questions

have been raised about the impact of ongoing organizational

changes on social workers and other health professionals.

Much of 2009 also saw the ACSW report concerns with

Alberta Health Services in the Advocate.

Minister Zwozdesky’s prompt acceptance of the

recommendations of the Mental Health Implementation

Review Committee signals Alberta Health Services has

entered a new era. The proposed bed closures announced

last summer for Alberta Hospital Edmonton was one of

many mental health concerns featured in the winter issue of

the Advocate.

Minister Zwozdesky supported recommendations to

halt the proposed transfer of non-geriatric patients from

Alberta Hospital Edmonton, pending the development of a

comprehensive province-wide plan for mental health.

This was welcome news for ACSW, as a member

organization of the Alberta Alliance on Mental Illness

and Mental Health, as well as for other individuals and

organizations concerned about mental health in Alberta.

Fee IncreaseIn the last Advocate, the President’s report announced an

ACSW registration fee increase to $350. The first group of

RSWs to be impacted will be those registered in the July 1

– June 30 quarter of 2010. This increase, the first since 1996,

will help balance the ACSW budget, which ended the 2009

fiscal year in a deficit position.

This increase required adjustments for all related registration

and membership categories. Please view the ACSW website

for the updated fee structure and additional information.

Further details will be included in registration renewal

packages. n

Rod Adachi is the Executive Director and Registar of ACSW. He can be reached at

acswexd@acsw.ab.ca.

DEADLINEfor the

Summer 2010 Advocate is

APRIL 15, 2010

regu

lar

feat

ure

10 The Advocate • Spring 2010

Ethics in actionAlison MacDonald, MDipl, RSW

Alison MacDonaldDeveloping a new code of ethics for Alberta“Action indeed is the sole medium of expression for ethics.” Jane Addams

“You cannot make yourself feel something you do not feel, but you can make yourself do right in spite of your feelings.” Pearl S. Buck

“All too often arrogance accompanies strength, and we must never assume that justice is on the side of the strong. The

use of power must always be accompanied by moral choice.” Theodore Bikel

Although the first formal Canadian social worker code of

ethics was not developed until 1977, interest in ethics is part

of our history and professional foundation. We are taught

ethics in social work education and asked to consider how

our personal beliefs and values correspond to social work

concepts. While we have explicit discussions or debates

on ethical issues at times, most often “ethics” is simply a

background to what we do and who we are as social workers.

A formal code of ethics is intended to be aspirational. It is

not the same as standards of practice, which tell you how

to manage critical day-to-day work functions—like record

keeping and informed consent. Rather, it is a statement of

the ideals we hold in common as a profession, providing a

glimpse of the world we would like to see.

Social workers in all fields of practice grapple with ethical

concerns on occasion. Whether you are a clinician with a deep

attraction to a client, a community practitioner wanting to help

a client’s business get a start by purchasing services, a researcher

needing access to confidential information, or a child welfare

worker trying to keep a struggling family together, the social

work code of ethics provides a source of guidance.

Social workers in Alberta have traditionally followed the code

of ethics developed and adopted by CASW. While ACSW

members participated in discussions on the development of

both the 1983 code and 2005 code, neither of these were

specifically designed to address the types of issues unique to

Alberta in the 21st century. Is it necessary to have our own

code? We believe it is at least time to consider the possibility.

In doing so, we ask for your input.

We would like to build a code based on the knowledge,

wisdom, and experience of Alberta social workers. To do this,

we need to hear from you, in writing and/or in person. To

begin the process, please send us your thoughts about social

work ethics. The following questions may be used to guide

your submission:

n What is the purpose of a professional code of ethics?

n What guides your social work practice?

n What do you want to see in a social work code of ethics?

n What common goals should all social workers aspire to?

We will accept written submissions throughout the process.

Beginning this spring, we will invite social workers to come

together in locations around the province to talk about the

code.

Please help us with this very important task by sending your

comments to socialworkethics@gmail.com or to the ACSW office by mail or fax. n

Alison MacDonald is the Associate Registrar for ACSW. She can be reached at

acswreg@acsw.ab.ca.

Insurance as simple as

Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

1 866 269 1371www.melochemonnex.com/acsw

TD Insurance Meloche Monnex is the trade-name of SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY who also underwrites the home and auto insurance program. The program is distributed by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services Inc. in Quebec and by Meloche Monnex Financial Services Inc. in the rest of Canada.

Due to provincial legislation, our auto insurance program is not offered in British Columbia, Manitoba or Saskatchewan.1Certain conditions and restrictions may apply.*No purchase required. Contest ends on January 14, 2011. Total value of each prize is $30,000 which includes the Honda Insight EX and a $3,000 gas voucher. Odds of winning

depend on the number of eligible entries received. Skill-testing question required. Contest organized jointly with Primmum Insurance Company and open to members, employees and other eligible people of all employer and professional and alumni groups entitled to group rates from the organizers. Complete contest rules and eligibility information available at www.melochemonnex.com. Actual prize may differ from picture shown.Honda is a trade-mark of Honda Canada Inc., who is not a participant in or a sponsor of this promotion.Meloche Monnex is a trade-mark of Meloche Monnex Inc., used under license.TD Insurance is a trade-mark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, used under license.

Insurance program recommended by

Request a quote and you could

Group home and auto insurance

Insurance doesn’t need to be complicated. As a member of the Alberta College of Social Workers, you deserve – and receive – special care when you dealwith TD Insurance Meloche Monnex.

First, you can enjoy savings through preferred group rates.

Second, you benefit from great coverage and you get the flexibility to choose the level of protection that suits your needs.1

Third, you’ll receive outstanding service.

At TD Insurance Meloche Monnex our goal is to make insurance easy for you to understand, so you can choose your coverage with confidence. After all, we’ve been doing it for 60 years!

for members of the Alberta Collegeof Social Workers

Projet : Annonce MMI 2009

Client : Meloche Monnex

No de dossier : HHH-MM8019-09 MMI.EN•acsw (8.25x10.75)

Province : Alberta

Publication : The Advocate

Format : 8.25x10.75

Couleur : B&N

Épreuve # :1

Date de tombée : 04/01/10

Graphiste : Yannick Decosse

Hamelin Martineau • 505, boul. de Maisonneuve O. Bureau 300 • Montréal (Québec) H3A 3C2 • T : 514 842 4416 F : 514 844 9343ATTENTION : Merci de vérifier attentivement cette épreuve afin d’éviter toute erreur.

VISIT the TD Insurance Meloche Monnex booth at the conference for a chance to win a prize!

HHH-MM8019-09 MMI.EN•acsw (8.25x10.75).indd 1 12/15/09 2:10:28 PM

regu

lar

feat

ure

12 The Advocate • Spring 2010

Red Deer College Social Work Program turns 40During the era of Neil Armstrong’s Moon walk, Woodstock, and the Montreal Expo’s first major league game in Canada,

Red Deer College was a mere five years old. In September 1969, a social work diploma was offered for the first time with

15 students and Don Snow at the helm.

Forty years later the college has seen thousands of hours of learning, hundreds upon hundreds of field placements, a

commitment to many of the program’s original intentions, and a multitude of rewarding personal and professional paths

influenced by those who passed through the program.

Celebrations in conjunction with the college’s Welcome

Back Weekend Celebrations, November 6 - 7, 2009, offered

the opportunity to recognize where we’ve come from,

honor those who frequented the halls, and recognize their

contributions to the profession.

Living Out Loud: Memories, Passions, & WisdomsA field placement project provided students

Melody Blackwell and Maggie Jones with the opportunity to recruit alumni and faculty interested in sharing program

memories and life journeys. Twenty individuals emerged from

the past four decades to take part in interviews for the DVD.

The production captured history, funny memories, poignant

moments, and connections between people’s program

experiences and where their journeys took them. Shown for

the first time during the celebrations, Living Out Loud is not

only a testament to the program, it is a tribute to their impact

as social workers. Copies are available for purchase ($10) by

contacting the program. Thanks to everyone who participated

in creating this legacy!

A Journey of Change: 40 Years of InspirationThe public learned about journey, passion, and commitment

during a Red Deer College alumni panel presentation on

November 6. Joel Ward, Red Deer College president, and

Diploma DialogueBrenda Joyce, MSW, RSW

Elizabeth Radian and Clark Prendergast enjoy watching Don Snow roast the crowd.

Erin Wanini and Tera Dahl-Lang, MC for the Reunion, enjoy the moment as Linda

Wells greets the group.

Don Snow does the honors as Torben Andersen, Dean of Arts, looks on. Jack

Ramsden (1975) convocates … finally!

regular feature

13Volume 35 • Issue 1

Austin Mardon, ACSW Council, offered congratulatory greetings. Linda Wells (1976) shared stories from her Métis upbringing, the many changes she witnessed during her career working with

individuals with disabilities, and the necessity for advocacy in

social work. Lyle Keewatin Richards (1989) emphasized “a foot in both worlds” as one of his guiding principles in advocating

for Aboriginal children and families. Capri Rasmussen (1996) offered her perspective on harm reduction and highlighted the

importance of partnerships and connections. Erin Wanini (2000) spoke of international needs and her commitment to

humanitarian work in Kenya with A Better World.

Panellists and moderators shared fond memories of students and

instructors throughout the morning, with past and present faculty

member moderators Elizabeth Radian, Clark Prendergast and Don Snow. A question and answer session allowed the audience to pursue panellists’ comments. Feedback from all was very

positive—“motivating,” “inspirational,” and “great to be part of

it” were just a few impressions heard following the session.

The Red Deer College program is proud its alumni continues

to make an incredible difference in the world. We are grateful to

Linda, Lyle, Capri, and Erin for sharing their journeys and taking

part in this important celebration.

Social Work Program ReunionAlumni, faculty, students, and guests gathered for visiting,

reminiscing, and a dinner program at Red Deer Lodge. After

discovering there were no convocation ceremonies in the early years, the planning committee arranged a fun event highlight—

an invitation for those alumni to don cap and gown and cross the stage!

Many thanks to the planning committee: Brenda Mullaney (2000), Joleen Losness (1998), Noni Carpenter (2004), Jack Ramsden (1975), Elsie Ramsden (1975), and Tera Dahl-Lang (1996), and faculty and staff who contributed to the event.

News from other programsEdmonton’s big news is MacEwan’s name change to Grant MacEwan University. The university’s mandate will remain the same and the university will continue its commitment to offering diplomas, certificates, and degrees. During the first week of January,

the social work program began another session in partnership with Yellowhead Region Educational Consortium at Hinton,

with 11 students.

What does the NorQuest College Social Work Program have to do with Vancouver’s 2010 Winter Olympics? A NorQuest stu-dent is taking an exclusive place as an ambassadorial participant and performer in the game’s cultural activities! On the strength

of an essay, first-year social work student Kayla Carifelle has been chosen from hundreds of applicants across Canada. She will represent her Nation and ancestry for the Vancouver 2010 Indigenous Youth Gathering sponsored by the Vancouver Organizing

Committee and four host First Nations. The event brings together more than 300 Aboriginal emerging leaders and commu-

nity ambassadors. The faculty congratulates Kayla on this wonderful opportunity and is truly proud of her participation in this globally-profiled event.

The 25th anniversary of the Community Social Work Program at Portage College is this year. The program will celebrate with past graduates and site supervisors later in 2010. First-year students plan to take part in an international practicum for their

second-year practicum in the 2010-11 school year and are considering a number of African locations. n

Brenda Joyce is the Chair of Social Work at Red Deer College.

SWSS: Kim McClaflin (l) and Maureen Gibson (r) bring greetings on behalf of the

Social Work Students Society.

Amy Komarniski, Alumni Development Coordinator, addresses the crowd at the

Social Work Reunion

regu

lar

feat

ure

14 The Advocate • Spring 2010

Private Practice PageAudrey Ferber, MSW, RSW

Audrey FerberAre daffodils roses?Social workers often experience confusion over the Alberta College of Social Worker’s Clinical Social

Work Registry and Private Practice Roster. And this leads to confused actions.

Each of these bodies annually requires certain information.

Social workers often think they have completed their annual

requirements only to find their mistake can lead to losing

registry or roster membership.

The Clinical Social Work Registry is a legal registry under

the Social Work Act. One must be on this registry in order

to legally call oneself a clinical social worker. The Private

Practice Roster is not listed in the Social Work Act. It is a

long-standing listing of social workers in private practice who

may or may not be in clinical practice. A social worker in

independent practice may not be on the roster.

In Alberta, about 440 social workers engage in some form

of private practice, but only around 65 are on the Private

Practice Roster. Any registered social worker can practice

in the province of Alberta whether on neither or both lists;

however, we would certainly like to see roster membership

grow!

Both lists require a master’s degree and involve meeting

continuing competency criteria to maintain list membership.

The criteria are similar but not the same.

Both require 10 hours of consultation/supervision annually.

While a person on both the Clinical Social Work Registry

and Private Practice Roster must submit their annual activity

sheet to the Clinical Registry, this information does not have

to be completed on the Private Practice Annual Renewal

Form. HOWEVER, the Private Practice Annual Renewal

Form must be submitted each year in order to maintain

membership on the Private Practice Roster.

Other pieces of information important to the Private Practice

Committee also need to be submitted on that form. In the

Clinical Registry, 50 hours of continuing competency are

required annually, with 10 of these hours in consultation/

supervision. The Private Practice Roster requires 40 hours

of continuing education, as well as 10 hours of consultation/

supervision.

Although we have simplified the process so that Clinical

Registry members no longer have to send information about

their educational activities during the year, we do need the

other information addressed on the renewal form.

Many people think that only clinical practice social workers

are on the Private Practice Roster. This is not correct. The

registry and the roster are both flowers, but one is a daffodil

and one is a rose. Each has specific requirements for care and

attention. Please do not mix up your flowers!

Correction In the winter Advocate we welcomed Nicole Gillis-Copping

to the Private Practice Roster. We apologize for listing an

incorrect phone number for her office.

Please note her correct office address and phone number:

Nicole Gillis-Copping, MSW, RSW

Campana Place

Suite 509, 609-14th Street NW

Calgary, AB T2N 2A1

Phone 403-998-9013nicole@solacecounselling.ca solacecounselling.ca

Audrey Ferber is a member of the Private Practice Committee and can be reached at

ferber@nucleus.com.

regular feature

15Volume 35 • Issue 1

Communication CornerBy Joan Marie Galat

Most of us are overwhelmed with Inbox messages. Make life easier for everyone by aiming to:

Keep emails short and to the point

Adjust your tone to avoid sounding abrupt, sarcastic, or unfriendly

Use attachments to send information longer than five paragraphs

Name attachments with words that are meaningful to all viewers

Avoid forwarding scam/virus warnings, as most are hoaxes (real warnings are distributed through the media). Visit snopes.com if you are unsure about a source.

Joan Marie Galat is the Advocate’s contributing editor, and a full-time writer and presenter. Visit joangalat.com to learn about the Write Effective Email workshop.

The lighter side of social work...by James Grasdal

16 The Advocate • Spring 2010

in t

he n

ews

Reviews:

Push and Precious:Two experiences that would be a shame to miss

By Peter Smyth, BSW, RSW Peter Smyth

Book Review: Push, by Sapphire (1996) (140 pages) Movie Review: Precious, the movie based on Push (2009)

Watching the movie Precious feels like getting a cuff to the back of the head. It wakes you up to how difficult life is for

those forced to grind out their existence one day at a time. The novel, Push, by Sapphire, though not a true story, is more

like a kick to the gut that shows you how one’s soul can be crushed by the cruelty of others—people as messed up as

those they abuse.

The old cliché “the book is better than the movie” is

certainly true here. However, because the movie sticks

closely to the book, both are absorbing and personal, leaving

one grasping for something pleasant to hang onto. Each

representation is real, gritty, and disturbing. For the book, add

“harsh” to that list.

Having been in the world of child protection for more

than 20 years, this story still impacted me, as well as other

social workers I know, with a troubling, squirm-in-your-

chair feeling. Those not in the field might wonder if it is an

exaggeration—perhaps preferring not to acknowledge people

could possibly live such wretched lives. But like Precious, they

can also triumph, though many, like her mother, do not.

While the book and movie

are tough to get through, at

the same time you cannot

get enough of them. They

are sensitively written and

directed (Lee Daniels) and

both achieve their intended

impacts. Whether you to

choose to read the book,

watch the movie, or do

both, neither are something

to do to kill time. Both

offer experiences that

would be a shame to miss.

The BookThe main character, 16-year-old Precious, is invisible and

unwanted “ugly black grease to be wiped away…,” who

proclaims “I don’t exist.” She lives in a fear-filled world

knowing there will be more abuse, more people putting her

down, more people telling her she is not good enough, and

nothing to look forward to. It is a white-dominated world

where “the welfare” tells you how to live and what to do.

What keeps people going when there is nothing to look

forward to? It seems the only hope Precious finds are small,

rare acts of strangers’ kindnesses that sometimes briefly lift her

out of the darkness. But she wonders—are these genuine or

just more people using you to get something? In her world, if

you trust, you don’t survive; everyone is an enemy.

The language of the illiterate Precious sets the book’s harsh

atmosphere. Her lack of hope, revealed early on, does not

allow you to find any on her behalf. Where do you search

for hope when you live a life of poverty in Harlem, pregnant

by your father, again! The school system has failed to educate

her; society has failed to acknowledge her, let alone show

compassion.

Stereotypes are standard discourse, with blacks, Latinos, and

whites jockeying for position and opportunity. Precious tries

to understand where someone in her situation fits in society.

She has no family, no friends, and no natural or professional

supports. Precious knows, but does not necessarily accept, that

she has the least amount of resources to get ahead. With no

in the news

17Volume 35 • Issue 1

guidance, education, or money it seems she is forced to drift

through life suffering sickening poverty and abuse by both

parents—constantly being told she is too fat, ugly, and stupid

to succeed.

Despite being repeatedly told to “get your ass down to the

welfare,” Precious knows she wants more in her life. She

reveals her determination by choosing not to escape her

misery through drugs, alcohol, crime, or self harm—though

you could almost understand if she did.

Upon finding her way to an alternative school, Precious

discovers a guiding light in her teacher—a black teacher of

high-risk, minority, Harlem youth in 1996 America. Ms. Rain

does not necessarily make it easy, but shows compassion and

does not give up on Precious. She is the first person to take

away the teenager’s invisibility.

Education gives Precious hope for herself and her children.

Though continuing to learn more distressing news that will

impact her future, she reaches a turning point and under-

stands she cannot look back. Precious enjoys the acceptance

of her peers, who also face overwhelming problems. She starts

to see the world through her own eyes instead of the way her

mother and “the welfare,” and racial norms script it for her.

Encouraged by her mentor, Precious begins to question her

role in society and whether she has to live her life the way it

seems to be scripted by her experiences.

The book provides a commentary on the social programs, or

lack thereof, in America. It illustrates how oppressive bureau-

cracies are and how nearly impossible it is to escape appalling

poverty when there are few resources and life is accompanied

by endless health problems, violence, crime, and addictions.

Sapphire puts this reality into her main character’s thoughts

when Precious loses her newly acquired passion for writing:

“Hammer in my heart now, beating me, I feel like my blood a

giant river swell up inside me and I’m, drowning. My head all

dark inside. Feel like giant river I never cross in front of me

know.”

But this short book does offer that moment of triumph and

emancipation we are desperate for by the time it arrives. We

need this for ourselves as much as for Precious; we do not

want to believe society can be that cruel to anyone. If we did,

perhaps we would have to look at ourselves and ponder how

we contribute to a world that is a tragically hopeless place for

some people.

The MovieThe movie’s mood closely parallels the book but is easier to take

because we are spared some of the graphic descriptions of abuse.

We can also escape with Precious when she dissociates to dream

about a happier life. These flashes of fantasy are the only positive

moments in her first 16 years—before she meets her teacher.

Precious is brilliantly portrayed as having strength even through

her misery. She just needs to meet the right person to acknowl-

edge it and give her a sense of belief in herself. As in other

youth with debilitating struggles, it is not that she does not have

dreams and goals, but rather that she buries them, not believing

in herself enough to ever see them through.

The cast is brilliant with newcomer Gabourey Sidibe, who

received “Best Actress” Oscar nomination (a followup to her

Golden Globe nomination) for her portrayal of Precious.

Sidibe, who is from Brooklyn, grew up in Harlem. With no

intention of getting into acting before being encouraged to

try out for the part, she honored Sapphire with her portrayal

of Precious. Equally astonishing was Mo’Nique, nominated for

“Best Supporting Actress” for her performance as the abusive,

misguided, lost mother, Mary. This was a brave role and its

intense portrayal is profoundly disturbing. The character’s

misdirected view of her own world leaves you dumbfounded.

Ms. Rain, played by Paula Patten, is compassionate and

understanding, but also assertive and smart—recognizing she is

a mentor and role model her students desperately need in their

lives.

Though played well by singer/actor, Mariah Carey, the

confusing role is Mrs. Weiss, who appears to be “the welfare,”

child protection worker, and psychologist all in one person

(white, middle class, and middle-aged, of course). However,

this does not take away from

the movie, which has deservedly

already won recognition and has

been nominated for six Academy

Awards including “Best Picture”

and “Best Director.” Given that

the subject matter raises questions

about the American social safety

net and that this work of fiction

does reflect a dismal reality, this is

quite an accomplishment. n

Peter Smyth, a member of the Advocate

Editorial Board, is a supervisor in Children’s

Services in Edmonton.

in t

he n

ews

18 The Advocate • Spring 2010

regu

lar

feat

ure

Dear Editor,

I am disappointed, saddened, and angered by the University of Calgary Faculty of Social Work announcement of a

Certificate in Working with Homeless Populations: Basic Skills and Practices. “This ... program will offer Calgary’s frontline

practitioners the basic skills and practices they need to work with this population’s complex personal, interpersonal,

and societal problems. It will address a broad scope of issues, as well as examine mental health, addictions, health care,

assessment, and interviewing, as well as re-housing and interventions strategies.” 1

To imply that homeless persons’ lack of appropriate housing is caused by their “personal, interpersonal, and societal problems …

mental health, addictions …”2 is to blame the victims of our rich society’s neglect and indifference. Homelessness is not their doing.

Homelessness is our doing and lack of doing.

I began living in Edmonton in 1965. Prior to 1993 I rarely saw persons begging in Edmonton.

Our first task as social workers is to work to change public policy to ensure that appropriate housing and food are available to

all without begging, stigma, or private charity. I am especially concerned about the housing crises in many Aboriginal com-

munities. And I have no sympathy for the notion that housing in Aboriginal communities is somebody else’s problem. It is our

disgrace.

Alberta’s climate makes appropriate housing essential to the integrity (survival) of the person. Appropriate housing is a right.

Persons without appropriate housing are being denied access to resources to meet their basic human needs.3

To end homelessness, it is we, the well housed, who must change: not they, the homeless. Housing and re-housing must be the

first priority for teaching and social action about homelessness, not an afterthought.

Sincerely,

Butch Nutter, PhD, RSW, RPsych(Ret)

Professor Emeritus of Social Work, University of Calgary

1 Dulaney. L. (Winter 2009). Learn how to work with vulnerable populations. The Advocate, 34(4), 10.

2 Dulaney. L. (Winter 2009). Learn how to work with vulnerable populations. The Advocate, 34(4), 10.

3 Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW). (2005). Code of Ethics, Value 2: Pursuit of Social Justice.

Letter to the Editor

Blaming the victimsBy Butch Nutter, PhD, RSW, RPsych (Ret)

Butch Nutter

Homelessness is not their doing.

Homelessness is our doing and lack of doing.

regular feature

19Volume 35 • Issue 1

New RSWsMembership as of

January 26, 2009: 6,282

Tanya Nicole Babitzke

Barbara Ann Beaulieu

Natalie Cox

Darlene J. Davis

Andrea Jean Elizabeth

Desjardins

Bernard Dumas

Debbie Edwards

Rebecca Lynn Fercho

Danielle Alys Fredrickson

Virginia (Ginger) Gardiner

Melanie Gendron

Karen L. Halfe

Kenneth Robert Hatch

Nigel Parke Haydu

Tobi Hudec

Elvira L. Idjao

Corrine Clarice Janzen

Shauna Lee Jimenez

Alia Saeeda Khan

Virginia Kathrine Lajimodiere

Breanna Francis LaRocque-

Walker

Darren Phillip Letendre

Amira Khan Lodhi

Matthew McCoy

Joshua Samuel Mcleod

Michelle Lee Merryfield

Michelle Moger

Brandi Alexandra Morpurgo

Tobias Mwandala

Francoise Nahimana

Dawn Nordin

Brent William Oliver

Bay Millicent Pal

Corrina Rasmussen

Lucia Madeira Reizevoort

Angela Milda Sellin

Rey Tupas Singh

Michele Smith

Desiree Quirina Staffeldt

Alec Stratford

Misti Lee Strohmaier

Michael Bryce Ward

Nicole Maria Ward

Kristin Roberta White

Ronald Charles White

Krystal Layne Williams

Gabriel Chi-Hao Wong

Susan Marie Worock

Elizabeth Joy Young

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ACSW 2009 BURSARY RECIPIENTS!KIMBERLY McCLAFLIN is an adult student completing her social work diploma at Red Deer College. A wife, as well as the mother of two teenage children, McClaflin feels privileged to be able to return to school at this point in her life with the cer-

tainty social work is the right choice. She intends to apply to the University of Calgary Learning Circles Curriculum for her

degree. McClaflin’s areas of interest include working with teenagers and human trafficking.

LINDSEY NIDDRIE graduated from Grant McEwan College in 2003 and became an RSW. She will obtain a BSW in spring 2010. Niddrie has been involved in a voluntary internship working with immigrant and refugee youth. She spent two months

living in Ghana, working at a Liberian refugee camp in 2006, and now plans to go with a team to Rwanda to address gender-

based violence. Niddrie hopes to have a career working within the immigration field, specifically with refugees.

HOLY LINTON moved from Madagascar to Canada eight years ago to marry her Canadian husband. The mother of a four year-old girl, Linton has a diploma in tourism. A career counsellor at the Calgary Immigrant Women Association led her to

the social work diploma program at Mount Royal. Linton, in her last semester, is passionate about women and women’s issues.

She plans to pursue her education as far as possible and work at an international level.

ULRIKE KIMBLEY-NICOLAI attended the University of Applied Science in Wuerzburg, Germany. She met her practicum requirement through Calgary’s Mustard Seed Street Ministry. After completing a specialization year in Germany, she returned

to write the thesis required for her German degree. Kimbley-Nicolai focused her research on homeless Aboriginal women

and their access to healthcare. She has a strong interest in women’s issues and now works towards a masters degree through

the University of Calgary Faculty of Social Work.

NATALIE PHUNG is a passionate fourth-year student in the University of Calgary social work program. She entered the pro-gram after completing a bachelors of arts in sociology and economics at the University of Alberta. Phung is completing her

senior practicum in Tampa, Florida, at the Northside Mental Health Center in the Medication Case Management Program.

She hopes to start her MSW at the Calgary campus of the University of Calgary in 2010. Phung looks forward to working

with victims of crime, domestic abuse and sexual violence, prostitution, and human trafficking. n

feat

ure

arti

cle

20 The Advocate • Spring 2010

feat

ure

arti

cle

By Joan Marie Galat, Advocate Editor

Joan Marie Galat

Gayla RogersPhD, Dean and Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary

Faculty’s first female dean reflects on her career as final term nears completion

A day in the life

Though she has been officially named a Global Television/YWCA “Woman of Vision” and the Calgary-

based “Woman of Influence” by Deloitte Women of Influence Inc., it did not take these most recent

honors for those who interact with Gayla Rogers to know she is an outstanding social worker, leader, and

administrator. The University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work’s first female dean, Rogers has completed

more than two terms of service.

While her career highlights form an inspiring list of what one person can achieve, Rogers is the first to point out she’s part of

a dedicated team. Her genuine appreciation for the efforts and accomplishments of her colleagues are just one of the factors

that make her a leader to emulate.

Early in her career, Rogers directed her faculty in creating

a governance structure that would enable them to share the

administrative load. “Everybody participated in a collective effort

to transform the faculty. It continues to this day,” says Rogers. “We

have a well functioning, highly engaged faculty and staff. Everyone’s

passionate about social work education, research, and our students.”

When Rogers became dean, the Faculty of Social Work was

experiencing very low student satisfaction. “Working as a collective

to develop a vision and mission supported by values allowed us to

develop strategic plans and move together in the same direction,” says

Rogers.

She led the faculty in developing curricula relevant to learners’ needs

and backgrounds. As a result, the faculty now serves a highly engaged

and satisfied student body—as evidenced by consistently high scores

on the National Survey on Student Engagement. Rogers especially

enjoys celebrating her students’ progress twice a year at convocation.

Almost 3,000 students have graduated during her time as dean.Gayla Rogers

21Volume 35 • Issue 1

Some people think if you move off the front lines, you give up ‘true’ social work. It’s important to see administration as building capacity both on personal and professional levels—you can’t do one and not the other—by shaping the practices that guide our work.

Continued on page 22

“I love presiding at convocation. I consider it one of the

highlights of my role, and am always impacted by the

magnitude and significance of the moment. I’ve watched

our graduates evolve from eager students with a vision for a

better future into promising professionals, ready to turn their

dreams into reality. As I watch the convocants walk across

the stage towards me, it always reminds me how privileged I

am to help nurture and educate the next generation of social

workers—and how lucky I am to be able to hug each of

them as they graduate!”

With trademark dedication and passion, Rogers has given

back to her students and the community as a social worker,

educator, and scholar. “That vision has driven all our faculty’s

decisions—curricula, fund development, resource allocation,

and research priorities,” says Rogers. “Our plan is adjusted and

reaffirmed annually, and allows us to respond to challenging

times.”

Rogers says she is most proud of leading the growth of her

faculty into a cohesive and highly regarded school of social

work in North America. “We are known for our teaching

innovation, research intensity, knowledge mobilization,

scholarly impact, strong partnerships, and contributions to

the community. I’m especially proud of the expansion of

the Bachelor of Social Work program in 1999 that created

the BSW Learning Circles program in rural, remote, and

Aboriginal communities, and the tremendous impact that it

has had in many communities across Alberta, especially with

First Nations and Métis people.”

Successfully increasing the number of Learning Circles

graduates led the faculty to offer culturally appropriate MSW

programs in partnership with Blue Quills and Red Crow

colleges.

Rogers is also proud of the faculty’s establishment of

the Centre for Social Work Research and Professional

Development. Opened in 2000, the centre supports and

promotes excellence in community-based applied research

and professional development throughout Alberta, as well as

nationally and internationally.Joining a SWSS Habitat for Humanity build in 2007.

The importance of two-way communication? Carolyn Barker, Gayla and Dr. Jackie

Sieppert, circa 1999.

Celebrating the Faculty of Social Work’s 40th anniversary in 2006 with SWSS

student leaders: (left to right) Mike Berlin, Gayla, Brenna Atnikov, keynote speaker

Justin Trudeau, and Rebecca Ataya.

22 The Advocate • Spring 2010

Gayla RogersContinued from page 21

It began with a summer jobRogers’ path to social work and eventually dean began with a summer job taken after

graduating in 1973 with her first degree, a University of Alberta bachelor of arts with

distinction. She took a summer job in the Alberta government department of Health

and Social Development in the “Unemployed Employables” section—a position that

also involved child welfare work. “That’s when social work began to look like a career

possibility I hadn’t considered,” reflects Rogers.

After taking advantage of an expedited program for those with degrees, she graduated

in 1974 from the University of Calgary with a bachelor of social work with distinction.

Rogers accepted a City of Calgary position in juvenile probation in the Bowmont area

office. “It turned out to be a job that prepared me very well for my future role as dean,”

she smiles. “After three years, I realized how complex a situation youth in conflict with

the law really was. I decided I should return to school to better prepare myself.”

In 1978, Rogers graduated with a master of social work in clinical studies. Already

working as a teaching assistant throughout her studies, she became a sessional instructor

and co-taught Social Work 201. “I was heading towards family therapy and a clinical

practice,” says Rogers. Now the mother of two young children and expecting a third,

she wanted part-time work and found teaching a good fit. Continuing as a sessional

instructor for the next nine years, in 1987 Rogers became the faculty’s first director of

field education and a tenure track assistant professor.

As field director, Rogers found a tremendous opportunity to build field education policy,

procedures, and practices. She professionalized field education by creating a consistent

approach across the faculty and finding ways to better integrate field work into the

curriculum. “When you turn ‘doing’ into ‘learning,’ you integrate theory with practice,”

says Rogers.

While director, Rogers pursued a doctorate in social policy at the University of

Newcastle-upon-Tyne, in the United Kingdom. She credits this experience with allowing

her to gain a much broader perspective on social work education. Rogers convocated in

1995 and continued directing field education until 1996, when she was seconded for 18

months to participate in a university-wide strategic development initiative. “That gave me

a pan-university perspective on post-secondary systems.”

In 1997, Rogers served as associate dean alongside acting dean, Kim Zapf, and then took

over as dean in 1998.

LeadershipRogers credits her success with having passion around a purpose. She recognizes the

importance of understanding relationships and building on people’s strengths, while

aiming to be a leader open to a creative management approach. “A good leader gets out of

people’s way! Enabling and facilitating are of primary importance, rather than dictating and

directing.”

More career

highlights

The faculty expanded access

to its Bachelor of Social

Work degree in 1999 by

offering a culturally relevant

program for rural, northern,

and Aboriginal communities

across Alberta. Rogers’ vision

also brought the Master of

Social Work degree to both

the Edmonton (2007) and

Lethbridge (2009) regions

of the faculty, opening the

doors of graduate education

to social workers across the

province.

In 2008, under Rogers’

leadership, the faculty

established its first endowed

research chair—the Brenda

Strafford Chair in the

Prevention of Domestic

Violence. It also raised funds

for numerous community-

based research projects, as

well as student awards and

scholarships.

The year 2002 saw Rogers

work with other community

leaders to create the Pulse

of Social Work awards, a

program that honossrs

registered Calgary and area

social workers and highlights

the many collaborative

efforts of major employers,

funders, and educators of

social workers.

feature article

23Volume 35 • Issue 1

As dean, she took frequent advantage of professional development opportunities. “I

laughingly call them ‘dean school.’ ” She read a lot, attended week-long programs,

conferences, and worked collegially with other deans. “There’s no question there’s a lot

of on-the-job learning. I would share my experience, and gather people around me who

could hold up the mirror and help me reflect and gain perspective.”

Rogers fondly remembers the origin of one of her best coping skills. “It was something

I learned from my daughter when she was seven, on one of those mornings when a

boot was lost, another child was looking for mittens, and I couldn’t find the car keys. I

was at my wits’ end, and she turned to me and said, ‘Exhale, Mommy.’ It’s been a very

good strategy! So now when I’m at my wits’ end, I exhale. I don’t press the send button

on a sensitive email; I wait a day. I close my door and debrief. I consult extensively about

a next move when I’m perplexed or uncertain. I have no trouble seeking advice. These

are the kinds of strategies that work for me.”

When considering the ambitions of social workers interested in administration,

Rogers’ advice is, “Consider opportunities to shape attitudes and be part of creating

an organizational culture that is conducive to good professional practice. Some people

think if you move off the front lines, you give up ‘true’ social work. It’s important to see

administration as building capacity both on personal and professional levels—you can’t

do one and not the other—by shaping the practices that guide our work.” For social

workers in the field, Rogers says, “Keep your eye on the importance of relationships and

the need to work at a systems as well as an individual level.”

Rogers’ advice for her successor is, “Have fun, and embrace innovation and new

challenges! It’s an honor and a privilege to be a dean of social work. This is a significant

leadership role in both our profession and the university.”

When it comes to the honors she has received over the years, Rogers says, “I’m pleased

to accept these awards because they don’t just recognize me. I accept them on behalf of

what this recognition brings to university educators, academic leadership, and the noble

profession of social work.”

After a well-deserved sabbatical leave in which she says she will remain open to

interesting projects that reveal themselves, Rogers will return to the University of

Calgary as a faculty member. She anticipates the pleasure of taking time to read, write,

and reflect, as well as providing consulting, and continuing with board work.

“Overall, my time as dean has been an amazing and rewarding journey, both personally

and professionally. I’m honored to have led our faculty’s transformation into the strong

and healthy institution it is today. We’ve seen tangible results, significant outcomes, and

long term impact within the faculty, our communities, and more importantly, for our

students and the people they will eventually serve. It’s been a privilege to serve the

Faculty of Social Work.” n

Joan Marie Galat is the Advocate’s contributing editor, as well as a full-time writer and presenter. Her latest book is

Day Trips From Edmonton.

List of boards and contributions to the profession and community

Currently:

Chair, Canadian Association of

Deans and Directors of Schools

of Social Work

Director on the Boards of:

Katimavik; Telus World of

Science & Creative Kids

Museum; HomeFront Society

for the Prevention of Family

Violence

Member:

Council of Champions of the

Calgary Children’s Initiative;

Program Committee of the

Alberta Centre for Child Family

and Community Research;

Governors for Children;

Alberta Secretariat for Action

on Homelessness; Child

Intervention Review Panel

Past directorships:

boards of YWCA of Calgary;

Canadian Association of Schools

of Social Work; co-chair of the

University of Calgary’s United

Way Campaign

Past Member:

Professional Social Work

Education Board of ACSW;

Board of Accreditation of the

Canadian Association for Social

Work Education

feat

ure

arti

cle

24 The Advocate • Spring 2010

By Joan Marie Galat, Advocate Editor

Cindy BlackstockIt’s not intentions–

it’s results that countMeet Dr. Cindy Blackstock—your 2010 ACSW Conference Keynote Speaker

feat

ure

arti

cle

Joan Marie Galat

Dr. Cindy Blackstock is coming to Edmonton! And if her keynote speech at the upcoming ACSW Conference is

even a tenth as engaging as the telephone interview I enjoyed, you will be very fortunate to hear her speak.

Blackstock is passionate about achieving justice for First Nations children. Her inspiring words are likely to

leave you feeling equally excited about your role in the social work scheme, while her go-get-’em attitude

will illuminate your own potential to achieve results and make your career even more meaningful.

Blackstock, who has a PhD in social work, is the executive director of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada—the only national organization to serve Aboriginal children and families. This non-profit organization of four employees and numerous volunteers provides research, policy and professional development services

to First Nations child and family service agencies in Canada. The society operates its Ottawa office in tandem with its First Nations Research Site in

Winnipeg.

In her keynote titled, “Is this our Canada?” Blackstock will talk about the

importance of standing on guard for the values of equality, freedom, fair-

ness, and democracy all the time—not just in wartime.

“Canada’s treatment of First Nations children stands in contrast to those

values,” says Blackstock. “The federal government provides less services for

children on reserves than for any other child in Canada, not just in social

services, but in education as well. You have a multiplier effect of inequality

that severely disadvantages First Nations children.”Cindy Blackstock

25Volume 35 • Issue 1

feature article

During the address, Blackstock will share the methodology

her organization uses to tackle this problem. “To try is not

enough. It’s not intentions—it’s results that count. All children

deserve the opportunity to be healthy and well.”

Born into the Gitskan Nation, an hour and a half from

northern British Columbia’s Pacific Coast, Blackstock names

her mother as the strongest influence in her formative years.

She recalls, at the age of five, receiving her first bicycle only

to have it stolen. Her mother responded by inviting the chil-

dren responsible to look after their house and garden while

they were away. “Mom said ‘these kids need our love and

respect more than you need a bicycle.’ ”

Less than pleased with her mother’s decision, Blackstock fully

expected to return home to find the house in disarray and

her belongings missing. Instead, they came back to a house

and garden that were better cared-for than ever before.

“They cleaned up! I was embarrassed by what I had thought.

I had expected the worse of them and they only gave their

best. Having my bike stolen was my biggest worry, while they

lived in a family of poverty. Mom was absolutely right. My

bike was nothing compared to their needs. I thought I was

the one with the injustice but she taught me that those who

are the hardest to love and respect need our love and respect

the most and they often have the most to teach us about

being a good person.”

Her mother’s example helped develop her social conscience

and taught her to consider events from different perspectives.

“To come back, expect the worst and be greeted with the

best, is a humbling learning experience. It made me pragmatic

in the way I think and also made me keenly aware of how

important it is to not pass judgment.”

During subsequent years of education and experience,

Blackstock’s thinking expanded to debate questions important

for every person to reflect:

What are the effects of your actions or inactions on other people?

How courageous are you prepared to be to stand up for what you

think is important?

What are you prepared to sacrifice?

“In order to take on big systemic structural problems,” says

Blackstock, “you’re going to require a level of bravery you

never thought possible of yourself. Your level of bravery needs

to at least match the courage and dignity of those we seek

to help. I look at results, not process or statements. Instead, I

want to know what you do and how you know it makes a

positive difference!”

These days, Blackstock’s time is often spent in activities

that fall outside social work’s customary realm of helping

services. In order to bring her organization’s message to the

world, she learned how to curate a photo exhibit. She is

spending a lot of time managing a legal action against the

federal government, coordinating a law suit charging racial

discrimination against First Nations children. She often finds

herself at gatherings with educators, physicians, and other

people working in disciplines that help children.

“It’s uplifting to see how eager they are to help. Social

workers tend to wring their hands about what’s culturally

appropriate before launching into action. These other groups

can be more effective because they will just do it.”

Blackstock says she would like to see social workers break

more rules. “I think we have to be willing to get into trouble

to do the right thing. I get into trouble all the time. As

social workers we are often taught to be nice and have the

Selection of First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada Projects• FirstNationsResearchSite

• TouchstonesofHopeLearningSymposium

• CaringAcrossBoundariesphotographyexhibition

• ChildWelfareFunding

• SubGrouponIndigenousChildrenandYouth

• EthicalYouthEngagement

In order to take on big systemic structural problems, you’re going to require a level of bravery you never thought possible of yourself.

Continued on page 26

in t

he n

ews

The Advocate • Spring 201026

best intentions but these are double-edge swords that can

mute our willingness to stir the pot for the right cause. This

includes being political. We need to engage in positive non-

partisan politics that engages everyday Canadians to make a

positive difference to social work in Canada.”

While noting social workers are adept at defining problems,

Blackstock points out the necessity of believing in the social

worker’s ability to do harm. “We’re very good at passing

judgments based on the standards upon which we live our

own lives. Once we pass that judgment, we can easily slip into

that next step—defining the help that’s needed. We need to

fundamentally respect the freedom of people to self-define

their own lives and intervene in ways that forward their

dreams—not ours.”

Her advice for social workers is to ask “What is it you need?

How can we help you?” instead of proclaiming “This is what

you need.” Because we believe in our own goodness and

our own good intentions, we can be blinded to the poor

outcomes caused by our interventions.”

Most of all she wants social workers to take action to help

First Nations children now. Visit fncaringsociety.com to find seven free ways you can make a positive difference for First

Nations children or fnwitness.ca to learn more the historic step to hold the federal government accountable before the

Canadian Human Rights Commission. n

Joan Marie Galat is the Advocate’s contributing editor, as well as a full-time

writer and presenter. Her latest book is Day Trips From Edmonton.

Cindy BlackstockContinued from page 25

is a proud sponsor of the Alberta College of Social Workers

Your Health In Good Hands

HSAA is a union that represents more than 18,000 professional, technical, support and EMS personnel in Alberta’s health-care system

The First Nations Child and Family Caring Society believes Aboriginal communities are in the best position to design and implement their own child safety solutions and that as a national organization our best role is to provide quality resources for them to draw upon.

—FirstNationsChildandFamilyCaringSocietyofCanada:AnnualReport,2009

in the news

27Volume 35 • Issue 1

for

your

info

rmat

ion

28 The Advocate • Spring 2010

feat

ure

arti

cle

For your informationPLEASE NOTE: For more listings, please see “Calendar of Events” at: www.acsw.ab.ca/calendar_of_events

CASW Statement on the Earthquake in Haiti

Social workers from across Canada are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the earthquake that has besieged Haiti. On behalf of

its 17,000 members, the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) extends condolences and support to both the people of Haiti and the

Canadian-Haitian community.

“Singular moments of immense human tragedy such as this that has befallen the people of Haiti demand immediate action and response,”

said CASW President, Darlene MacDonald. “Social workers, including those from Canada, will play a crucial role in supporting the Haitian

population in the wake of this tragedy.”

CASW supports the international emergency response and relief efforts and recognizes that, given the depth of the human tragedy experienced

from this natural disaster, the restoration and rebuilding of Haiti will require sustained effort and commitment.

To make donations in support of the people of Haiti, contact:

GET SPECIALIZED!!! EXPERIENTIAL TRAINING IN PLAY THERAPY

THE FOUNDATIONS OF PLAY THERAPY PROGRAM (Green Stream)Dates: July 18-26, 2010 Location: Calgary Category “A” approved

The Rocky Mountain Play Therapy Institute (RMPTI) is internationally recognized as a facility dedicated to training child and play therapists. The Foundations of Play Therapy Program is not a workshop! It is an intensive, certificate training program that offers 75 hours of approved/certified training (9 days face-to-face plus 7 hours equivalent on-line). Practitioners will have a unique opportunity to practice skills in fully equipped play therapy training rooms.Core topics include:

• History of Play Therapy • Play therapy models/theories • Play-based strategies• Play modalities – sandplay, puppets, clay, therapeutic storytelling, etc. • Tracking and case conceptualization skills

This course prepare