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Touro College Graduate School of Social Work Graduates First Class
School Awards 43 MSW Degrees to Class of 2008 at 92nd Street Y in Manhattan
New York, N.Y. - The Touro College Graduate School of Social Work held its first commencement on Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at the Kaufman Concert Auditorium of the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan. The ceremony saluted an inaugural class of 43 students receiving master’s degrees in social work (MSW).
Dr. Robert Schachter, executive director, of the New York City chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, a respected and influential figure in the city’s social work arena, delivered the keynote address.
“Because we have a diverse student body that is ready and eager to enter the workforce, Dr. Schachter’s interest in urban and global social work issues is especially significant for our graduates,” noted Dr. Steven Huberman, dean of the graduate school. "He inspired and encouraged our students, their families and the entire college community."
In recognition of his work in leading New York City’s social workers, Dr. Schachter was presented with the school’s first annual Shofar Award. During his address, Dr. Schachter urged the students to expand their learning capacity and to strive to achieve their fullest potential.
Three graduating students also spoke at the ceremony: Rabbi Alan Taub, Esther Manela and Bobby Staley. Each student urged their peers to set high standards for themselves.
“An honor such as this (degree) is a wonderful way for the Graduate School of Social Work to recognize and celebrate the choices as well as the sacrifices made by the students,” said Ms. Manela in her remarks. “Let us pledge to never be satisfied until we excel.”
Established in 2007, the Touro College Graduate School of Social Work offers coursework in clinical social work leading to the MSW degree. The primary goal of the program is to prepare advanced self-aware social work clinicians who are dedicated to the goals, values and ethical standards of the profession; inspired to deliver clinical services to individuals, families, groups and communities; committed to lifelong professional development; and ready to advocate for effective services for the most underserved in our society, as well as to cultivate the skills to deliver those services. For more information on the Touro Graduate School of Social Work, visit gssw.touro.edu.
Media Contact
Barbara Franklin
Director of Communications
212-463-0400 x5530
Barbara.franklin@touro.edu
