SBS Faculty Awarded NASW Transformational Educator and Lifetime Achievement Awards
Professor Mary Damskey and Professor Emeritus David McKell have been recognized for their contributions to the field of Social Work in Arizona. Awards were presented to five leaders in social work in Northern Arizona on March 15th, at a celebration of National Social Work Month co-hosted by NAU and the National Association of Social Workers Arizona Branch 3.
Profiles on all awardees can be found below. One hundred and twenty students and community members were in attendance.
Following the award ceremony, a team from Arizona Department of Child Safety presented a movie, discussion session, and ice cream social sponsored by NAU’s Child Welfare Training Project. Students and professionals dialoged about the value, challenges, and rewards of child welfare work, and future helping professionals were able to connect with experienced counterparts over chocolate, vanilla, and sprinkles.
Award winner profiles:
Mary Damskey – Transformational Educator of the Year
As a faculty member in NAU’s BSW Program for over 20 years, and the Field Education Coordinator for many of those years, Mary has transformed the educational experiences of NAU’s Social Work students. Presenters described her as “an authentic and innovative leader in social work education who touches students’ hearts and minds to a new perspective, encouraging them to achieve their full potential.”
David McKell – Lifetime Achievement Award
Since helping begin NAU’s BSW program in 1974, Dave’s curiosity and critical inquiry have inspired sociology and social work students, and nudged colleagues out of their “comfort zones.” Professor McKell is being recognized for his “outstanding creativity and courage, recognition beyond the social work profession, and achievements and contributions with lasting impact.”
Stacy Krueger – Public Citizen of the Year
Stacy Krueger is a Prosecutor in the Coconino County Attorney’s Office and a critical member of the Coconino County Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team since its formation in 2010. Stacey advocates for the rights of crime victims with compassion, integrity, and an obvious commitment to both social and criminal justice. She has made significant contributions to regional at-risk populations through her courage, leadership, and values.
Lisa Taylor – Emerging Leader of the Year
The Emerging Leader award is given to an exceptional social worker under 35 years of age. Though Lisa Taylor is relatively new to the Flagstaff community, she has been one of the most active members of NASW Branch 3, and an inspiring spokesperson for our profession. Lisa contributes to the professional social work community with enthusiasm and energy and clearly demonstrates a commitment to social work’s purpose and values.
Celia Barotz – Public Elected Official of the Year
Celia has served as a Flagstaff City Council member and/or Vice Mayor since 2010. Her policy positions and public service have exemplified social work’s values. Regardless of the issue, Celia’s work and advocacy promote social and economic justice.