Message from the Dean
Message from the dean
Dear Alumni and Friends,
“So much trouble in the world,” a song made famous by Bob Marley almost 50 years ago, has special meaning today. An ongoing war in Gaza with loss of lives numbering more than 50,000; widening famine and widespread starvation in the Sudan; and the erosion of State authority in Haiti are but a few of the devastating events occurring worldwide.
Here at home, news headlines report almost daily new federal mandates that, while not on the level of war and famine, are sure signs of trouble for individuals, groups, educational institutions, and corporations deemed to not be in line with goals of the new administration. Impacted immensely by these orders and ways of doing things are families and children who are poor or working class and in need of government benefits; communities and individuals who experience discrimination and racism as a fact of living; and persons who face deportation, disruption of their families, and hyper scrutiny though they contribute significantly to the American economy and way of life. Also not spared are government workers whose jobs are considered bloat and loss of jobs the brunt of a chainsaw joke, and universities whose faculty are viewed as elite and research regarded as being out of touch with real world problems and conditions. Yet, some of us keep doing what we do to inform with facts, work to make things better, and lead with courage, commitment and caring.
This issue of Affirmations features Jane Addams faculty, students and alumni who are working to make a difference for children, families and communities even in the midst of troubling times and trouble in the world. The JACSW’s signature event, the Karen J. Honig Memorial Lecture, named for a 1986 graduate who was committed to bettering the lives of inner-city children and youth, featured four of our most noted faculty discussing their work supporting parents to strengthen families. Associate Professor Jennifer Geiger shared her insights on the potential impact of the recently passed Illinois legislation that prioritizes a “kin-first approach” in foster care to place children with relatives or close connections, aiming to reduce trauma and improve stability. And JACSW Assistant Professor Kathryn Bocanegra is working to keep Chicago’s families together by developing programs to reduce violence, so it will not permeate their lives.
I hope this issue of Affirmations is informative and that the stories are inspirational. In trying times, we must keep trying. Many, many thanks for the different ways you support the College, and as always it would be good to hear from you.
Creasie Finney Hairston, PhD
Dean