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.
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.
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.
Rutgers School of Social Work’s Office of Continuing Education hosted its ninth annual Challenging Racial Disparities Conference, “A Call to Action,” on Wednesday, June 9, bringing together more than 500 social workers and allied professionals for a powerful virtual learning opportunity. Attendees heard from thought leaders in the profession and gained new skills to address issues in their work with clients, organizations, and communities.