To the Wisconsin social work community,

As I begin my final year as President of NASW-WI, I feel both grateful and inspired. Serving in this role has been one of the greatest honors of my career. It has given me a front-row seat to the resilience, creativity, and commitment of social workers across our state. Over the years, I’ve met individuals so many different social workers and each story reminds me of the depth, diversity, and strength of our profession.

This past month, I had the privilege of onboarding our new Board of Directors. As I listened to each of them share during orientation, I was both encouraged and energized by the passion they bring:

• Marc Seidl – Our President-Elect with nearly two decades in child protection, Marc brings deep experience in leadership and a commitment to strong, ethical practice.

• Ke’Andra Hagans – Returning board member New role as Vice President and professor at UW-Milwaukee, Ke’Andra has dedicated her career to mentoring and developing the next generation of school social workers.

• Dr. Thomasina Jenkins – Clinician, educator, and co-founder of the Black Clinicians Network, Thomasina is a long-standing advocate for equity and representation in social work.

• Kendra Schmidt – A non-traditional student and advocate for older adults, Kendra uplifts the voices of rural healthcare social workers.

• Steven J. Miller – Mental health advocate who focuses on infertility and reproductive health for men, shining light on issues often overlooked in practice.

• Kayla Howell – A dedicated BSW student passionate about peer support and preparing future social workers to thrive.

• Rick Valdez – A former police officer turned social work student, Rick is committed to serving homeless veterans and justice-involved populations.

• Amy Kirby – An educator and clinical social worker with extensive experience across child welfare, mental health, and criminal justice, Amy bridges classroom and practice.

What struck me most is that these leaders represent different parts of Wisconsin and different areas of social work practice, yet they are united by a shared commitment to our profession. Each brings unique experiences, perspectives, and passions that will strengthen our board and, ultimately, the work of NASW-WI and our profession.

Listening to them reminded me of something I truly believe: our table is strongest when diverse voices are present and when every voice feels safe and empowered to speak up.

Social workers should be the catalysts, the living examples of our core values: service, integrity, social justice, dignity and worth of every person, the importance of human relationships, competence, and a deep commitment to advancing our profession. And here is where true growth and change happens when we invite people who are different from us, when we welcome perspectives that challenge us, and when we choose courage and neighborly love over our own comfort. I know this isn’t always easy. Staying in familiar spaces feels safe. Sometimes we wonder: Will I say the wrong thing? Maybe you will and that’s okay. Apologize, ask for help, and keep learning. Can I be myself? Yes and you should. Because the reality is this: we are better, stronger, and more impactful when we make space for differences.

When we make room for new voices, we discover solutions we would never have found on our own. When we listen to experiences outside of our own, we deepen our understanding of the challenges our communities face. And when we step into spaces that stretch us, we create pathways for equity, inclusion, growth, and lasting change.

This is the kind of example our profession and even the world calls for—not just holding space, but expanding the space. Not just inviting people to the table, but making sure they feel empowered to speak, be heard, and lead. That is how we strengthen NASW-WI, and that is how we strengthen our profession and live out the very values our profession was built upon.

Looking Ahead: Our Annual Conference

As we prepare for our Annual Conference in October, I encourage you to make space in your calendar to join us. The conference is not just about CEUs or professional development, it’s about connection. It’s where we come together to share ideas, re-energize our commitment, and ensure that the future of social work in Wisconsin is strong, inclusive, and united.

This is where we become what we want to see in the world: unity, compassion, and love in action.

Most importantly, the conference is a chance to see our values come alive social workers from across the state and even country uniting to strengthen our profession and better serve those who rely on us. Whether you attend in person or virtually, your presence matters.

Lastly, In this final year of my presidency, my hope is simple: that more of you will step out, whether that be in your communities, on your jobs, into leadership, entrepreneurship. Find your place at the table, and carry forward the work of building a stronger, more inclusive profession. The future of NASW-WI is bright because of you.

The future of the profession is bright because of you.

In partnership,
Kim Howard, MSW, CAPSW
President, NASW-WI

Founder of Therapy Directory Online

Owner of Mind Renewal Psychotherapy