Elizabeth Wichers DuMez and Donato Sardella have synthesized into this splendent collection the diverse experiences of exemplary social workers whose lives honor the passion and commitment of the profession. Celebrating Social Work spans seven decades of the profession’s development, capturing 51 visual and oral portraits of accomplished practitioners and educators. Through each personal narrative, social work’s mission and wide-ranging contributions to social justice and community well-being unfold. These individuals describe the circumstances, experiences, and relationships that have informed their own careers and laid the foundation of social work as it is practiced today. As a reflection of more than 100 years of value-based service, Celebrating Social Work presents a compelling image of a robust and diverse profession that makes and changes history.

Celebrating Social Work is coffee table-style book, paperback with French flaps, 11" x 11", and makes a wonderful gift.

About the Author

Elizabeth Wichers DuMez enbarked on this project in 1998, the year of social work's centennial. She describes interviewing these accomplished representatives of the profesion as a joy and privlefe. Previously DuMez managerd the Office of Ethics and Pressional Review a the National Association of Socialers, served as staff int he Division of Standards and Accreditation at the Council on Social Work Education, and taught social work at George Masion University. Her direct practice entailed working in public welfare and with disabled children.

About the Photographer

Donato Sardella was born in Bari, Italy, where his large extended family calls home. He followed in the footsteps of his paternal grandfather, an artist who traveled extensively and photographed many of his adventures. Donato studied photography at the European School of Design in Melan, and after assisting Bob Krieger, art director and photograher for the Italian Harper's Bazaar, for several years, he opened his own studio in Milan in 1983. His clients included major Italian designers and international publications such as Armani, Versace, W, Women's Wear Daily, In Style, Robb Report, and Vogue. Donato specializes in portrait and fashion photography. He has been living in Los Angeles for the past 13 years.