2023 Award Recipients

CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS (CASW) DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD FOR NL:
HENRY KIELLEY MSW, RSW
 

CASW 2023 Award Winner Henry Kielley


The CASW Distinguished Service Award is presented annually by the CASW to an individual or group of individuals selected from their membership by each CASW member organization. 

Henry is currently the Director of Seniors and Aging and Provincial Director of Adult Protection with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Throughout his 22-year career, Henry has worked in front-line social work, program and policy development and administration. Henry is committed to age friendly communities, resident centered care and the rights of vulnerable adults. He recently directed the review of the provincial Adult Protection Act using this lens to shape the future of the legislation.

As a student, Henry was the recipient of the NLCSW Student Award which recognizes a high level of practice competence during field practicums and commitment to the profession. Since graduation, Henry has been an active volunteer in various capacities with NLCSW including serving as President of the Board of Directors. He is a facilitator of continuing education events and contributes articles for social workers addressing topics such as ageism and the rights of older adults. He was instrumental in the development of the provincial social work practice resource focused on decision specific capacity assessment.

Henry is a field instructor for BSW and MSW students at the Memorial University School of Social Work where he supports the growth and competency of students. Henry is dedicated to mentorship of social work staff across program areas.

Henry’s consistent commitment to the improving the lives of clients and advancing and promoting the social work profession is commendable.


NLCSW PRIDE IN THE PROFESSION AWARD: RITA-ANNE VOISEY BSW, RSW

 

Rita-Anne Voisey


The NLCSW Pride in the Profession Award is presented annually to a registered social worker who promotes the advancement of social work in Newfoundland and Labrador and demonstrates outstanding pride in the profession. 

Rita-Anne completed her social work education at Memorial University and has been a registered social worker since 2013. Rita-Anne has worked with the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development and is currently Family Connections Manager with Nunatsiavut Government’s Department of Health and Social Development.

In the words of Rita-Anne’s nominator - “Rita-Anne demonstrates a passion for social work values and incorporates this into her practice everyday…Rita-Anne is a strong Inuk woman who incorporates culture into practice, which creates a safe, diverse space for the people that she works with”.