NAPRHSW 2019 Gala Journal

Message from the President

Message from the Gala Chairperson

National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers

National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers

Louis Medina, MSW

Dilcia Granville, PhD., LMSW

I want to take this opportunity to welcome you to our 36th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala. The National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers (NAPRHSW) was established in 1983, by a group of students and professionals working and attending Stony Brook University’s School of Social Welfare. As I reflect on the history of our association, I realize the essence of acknowledging NAPRHSW members efforts to collaborate with agencies to influence government in promoting change for the betterment of the conventional existence of our communities. We take pride to honor those who have supported NAPRHSW in these efforts. This year’s honorees and scholarship awardees will continue the “Legacy, Promise, and Leadership” that enhances the quality of life. This evening we honor and recognize, Sonia Palacio-Grottola, LCSW with the Lifetime Achievement Award, Gladys Serrano, LCSW with the Legacy Award, and Pilar Delgado, Executive Director Adelante of Suffolk County with the Agency of the Year Award. In conclusion, I would like to thank everyone who volunteered by contributing their time and efforts to the successful outcome of this event. I want to recognize our sponsors whose contributions support the very purpose of this Gala, the funds for our Scholarship Awardees. A special thank you to our planning committee, Board of Directors, Members at Large, and finally our committee chair Dr. Dilcia Granville. Without your love and support, none of this would be possible. May God continue to bless each and every one of you.

Welcome and thank you for joining us for an evening event of gratitude and celebration! Tonight, we applaud the accomplishments of our three exceptional Honorees and celebrate their Legacy, Promise and Leadership. It has been my pleasure to serve as the Gala Chairperson and to serve as the Vice President of this organization. I am humbled to volunteer for the NAPRHSW which provides much needed scholarships for Latinx students enrolled on a Master of Social Work Program. You may be aware, but the Annual Gala is the organization’s principal fundraising event of the year. Your attendance and support are greatly appreciated and help the NAPRHSW not only support the students in needs, but the Latinx community as a whole. With the shortage of Latinx social workers, the scholarship awardees are serving much needed, emerging, Latinx community. This evening we want to recognize and celebrate all of the people who make NAPRHSW special, its generous supporters, volunteers; and special recognition to her Legacy and Founding member of this organization, Sonia Palacio. I would like to thank the Gala Committee for their tireless support and commitment to this event. Their willingness and responsiveness to support the Gala is remarkable, and most appreciated. Many thanks are extended to everyone for giving of their time and energy in planning this event.

Please enjoy this wonderful evening! Thank you for being part of this 36th Annual NAPRHSW Gala!

Louis Medina, MSW President NAPRHSW

Dilcia Granville, Ph.D., LMSW Vice President NAPRHSW

4

5