by Joel L. Rubin,  MSW, LSW, ACSW, CAE

I am writing this note following our nation’s 250th anniversary. Although it has been a very challenging time for many of us in the social work community, it is also important to reflect on the core values laid out in our code of ethics—those of service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity and competence—and celebrate how these have helped shaped and strengthened our country. Please keep these positive notions in mind. 

Since June 1st, I have had the opportunity to connect with many leaders of the Wisconsin Chapter, whether they be committee members, government officials, or the new Chapter Leadership Council. 

I would like to welcome the following new leadership of the Chapter.  They include: 

• West Central/North Central/Northeast Region Representative: Valarie Wielhouwer, DSW, APSW (she/her)

• MSW Student Representative: Ellaina Ontiberoz (she/her) 

• The start of Marc Seidl's, (he/him) term as President.

Last month I traveled to Washington, DC, for the 2026 NASW National conference. During the course of the conference, we convened a meet-up of Illinois, Wisconsin, and Missouri social workers, which gave me a chance to meet the Wisconsin social workers who attended.  

A couple of additional items of note: 

• Registration is now open for the NASW Wisconsin 52nd Annual Conference, One Mission: Social Workers for Hope, Healing and Advocacy that will take place November 4-6, 2026 at the Madison Marriot West hotel.  We expect over 600 social workers from across the state.  I look forward to seeing many of you there.  
• Please take action on this important issue for the profession - NASW Continues To Advocate To Have Social Work Considered A Professional Degree | Social Work Blog 

Enjoy the rest of your summer! 

-Joel