In a powerful continuation of their mission to shine a light on mental health awareness, sisters Artemis and Sophia Mazzini, alumnae of Rutgers University, have launched a new endowment at Rutgers School of Social Work through their nonprofit, Into the Light. Established in memory of their father, the endowment will support MSW students pursuing careers in mental health with a focus on youth and young adult services.
Ten years ago, Robert Brady was at one of the lowest points in his life—homeless, struggling with substance use disorder, and battling untreated post-traumatic stress. Today, he stands tall as a clinical supervisor, a Rutgers School of Social Work graduate, and a beacon of hope for those navigating the same dark paths he once walked.
Michael Turner MSW'24 had about a decade of experience working at Volunteers of America Delaware Valley when he decided to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Rutgers University. As Turner progressed in his studies, he was promoted to program director, taking on a more administrative role that involved supervising clinical staff and operations, as well as gathering, analyzing, and reporting data. When the time came to fulfill the MSW’s practicum requirement, Turner identified a unique and valuable opportunity: he could complete his practicum at his own workplace. This arrangement resulted in an immersive, hands-on educational experience for Turner, while also providing significant value and actionable insights for his organization.
Rutgers University mourns the passing of Dr. Elfriede (Elfi) Galanter Schlesinger, former dean and longtime professor at Rutgers School of Social Work. Dr. Schlesinger passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, at the age of 96.
The Rutgers School of Social Work community is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Professor Emerita Isabel Wolock, who died on May 30, 2025, at the age of 97 in Metuchen, New Jersey. A revered scholar, mentor, and colleague, Dr. Wolock leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to social work education and a profound impact on generations of students and faculty.
A Rutgers analysis of medical records reveals sharp disparities in use of drug addiction services based on insurance type
A Rutgers professor and other researchers create a national baseline of firearm exposure among youth and young adults that could guide development of intervention programs
For the past twelve years, members of the School of Social Work’s Alumni Council have served as ambassadors that interface between the School, the thousands of alumni who earned a social work degree from Rutgers, and the broader social work community. The Alumni Council, which is comprised of alumni who serve in a volunteer capacity, supports future generations of social workers, enhances the professional portfolios of alumni, and keeps graduates connected with their classmates. Council members work collaboratively and actively engage with fellow alumni to promote the School’s reputation and standard of excellence among internal and external stakeholders. The Council also provides recommendations based on trends in the field to School leadership.
Patricia Kastner, SSW’02 is a dedicated alumna, a beloved mother and grandmother, and a lifelong advocate for children and families. Patricia’s journey to a career in social work has been defined by empathy, strength, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Now, as she faces advanced ovarian cancer and receives care through hospice, her family and medical team are carrying forward her legacy through the newly-established Ovarian Cancer Innovation Fund—a visionary effort to fuel research and bring hope to others facing this disease.
