Bobby Staley

Social work excites me because it warrants a degree of intellect and resourcefulness. I can be innovative and creative while assisting others in a way that is aligned with self-determination and promoting self-efficacy. I like the universal approach of working with people in their environments, coupled with the concept of “doing no harm.” I understand that I should be addressing the needs of those I serve, not my needs, and in doing so I find that I am growing.

The skill I never realized I’d need is patience because it is not at my pace that change happens. I am a conduit to change.

My professional role models are those who soar when they are in their natural element. This touches you in a way that's special. So I have adopted different aspects from various individuals. To name a few at Touro whom I hope to emulate are Dean Huberman and the way he handles a group or podium; he is always inclusive and never offensive. Professor Allison Bobick and her skill of listening and showing interest in what you have to say. This is a skill that invites, and makes you comfortable and empowers you to trust and feel safe.

The most critical thing I learned in social work school is self-awareness and to pursue a nonjudgmental approach towards others. By being aware of self (and by that I mean judgmental self) I can balance and open myself up to understanding. This evokes not leaning towards one’s (perceived) understanding, and opens the door to tap into a more comprehensive understanding of others and oneself.

Social work can be so much more than just handling cases. Most people don’t realize this. It can be as heroic as resuscitation; or, as complimentary as helping someone on their way. It can be as simple as handling cases, or it can be a rich and rewarding vicarious and personal experience that transitions a threshold (I imagine) without constraints that exist in other professions.

My passion for sports helped me in school and in my career because it correlates with my joy for facilitating activities. In sports when you provide an assist you are joining with others. It is nice to be the guy/girl who scores the goal. For some it is nicer to be the guy/girl who helps someone score the goal --.especially when no one else might have been able to make it happen as easily! And you get to celebrate it with someone else. Now that's social!

Bobby is President of the Graduate School of  Social Work’s Alumni Association and a founding member of the Association, as well as a founding member of the school’s Alumni Leadership Council.