57th Annual Conference | National Association of Black Social Workers, Inc. on Glue Up

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Welcome

Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Friends,

On behalf of the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW), it is my distinct honor and pleasure to invite you to the 57th Annual NABSW Conference, which will take place in the vibrant city of Richmond, Virginia, from April 15–19, 2025.

This year's theme, "Social Work is Determination, Opportunity, Power, Equity," encapsulates the transformative impact of our profession and the legacy we continue to build. Social workers are at the forefront of change, harnessing our determination to overcome challenges, creating opportunities for communities to thrive, leveraging power to dismantle systems of oppression, and advocating for equity at every turn.

Richmond, a city rich with history and resilience, serves as the perfect backdrop for this pivotal gathering. From dynamic keynote speakers to thought-provoking workshops, this conference will provide a space to celebrate our collective achievements, deepen our skills, and chart a course toward a more just and equitable future.

Whether you are a seasoned professional, an emerging leader, or a dedicated student, this conference offers something for everyone. Beyond the sessions, you will have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for advancing Black communities and uplifting our profession.

Mark your calendar and join us for this powerful experience. Together, let us renew our commitment to being catalysts for transformation, rooted in the determination, opportunity, power, and equity that define social work at its best.

We look forward to welcoming you to Richmond!

Forward Ever, Backwards Never,

Dr. Renata Hedrington-Jones

National President

National Association of Black Social Workers

Concurrent Workshops

Room: Salon J
9:30 AM - 11:30 AMApplying the Ujima Principle to Create an African-centered Community Care Approach to Support Black Children and Young Adults with Disabilities
This workshop is designed to introduce an African-centered care approach to addressing the unique needs of Black children and young adults with disabilities through collective responsibility, cultural grounding, and holistic well-being.

Track: Disabilities
2 CEUs
Rita Walters, PhD, LMSW
Department Chair and Professor at Ferris State University
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM#BlackMarriageMatters
Black marriages are often impacted by disparities in education, income, employment, and incarceration rates, which collectively create unique challenges for couples. However, despite these challenges, Black marriages reflect resilience, strong communal bonds, and cultural traditions that can be leveraged in both therapeutic and community work.

Track: Social Work Practice
1.5 CEUs
Jermel Gilliam, DMin, ABD, LMSW
Christa Gilliam, PhD
Associate Professor
Room: Salon I
9:30 AM - 11:30 AMWhy Can't I Secure My VA Benefits
This workshop will give the basic instruction on how to complete each form, the proper wording upon each form and how this will allow their process to flow easier through the VA system. This workshop will also include answering all questions on the do's and the don't upon working towards a successful claim.

Track: Military Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families
2 CEUs
Linwood Alford, MSW, BHT, HST, QMHP A/C
Owner at Open Door Resource Center Inc
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMA Sankofa Experience: HBCU Social Work Students Cultivating Connections within an African Diaspora Cultural Exchange Program
This workshop highlights the importance of NABSW to advocate for and support Black college students, and that entities like NABSW and HBCUs play to increase the number of Black students who participate in study abroad programs. The African Self-Consciousness Theory is used to examine the level of African world-consciousness within descendants of Africa.

Track: International Social Work & Global Issues
1.5 CEUs
Nathan Stephens, PhD, LMSW
Assistant Professor at Illinois State University
Jaire Clarida, MSW, LMSW, LCSW-A
PhD Student at Morgan State University School of Social Work
Room: Salon H
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMBlack Leaders: Using Our Authentic Voices
This workshop provides an opportunity for African Descended/Black individuals to develop an understanding of racial trauma and how we have internalized white supremacist messages that prevent us from speaking our truths and stopping harm by white colleagues. We will explore Dr. Kenneth Hardy’s Privilege and Subjugated Task (PAST) Model, specifically focusing on the Tasks of the Subjugated.

Track: Founding Prinicples and Values
1.5 CEUs
Tracey Rollins Spann, LMSW
Room: Salon G
9:30 AM - 11:30 AMNABSW 101: What Conferees Need to Know But Were Afraid to Ask!!
NABSW 101 aims to demystify the conference experience, providing essential insights and guidance that every conferee should know but might hesitate to ask. Whether you are a first-time attendee or a seasoned participant, this workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the organization effectively and maximize your experience.

Track: Founding Principles & Values
2 CEUs
Tiffany Johnson, EdD, LCPC, MBA
Chief Operating Officer at Lakeside Community Committee
Kathy Lopes, MSW, LICSW
DEI Director of Newton Public Schools
Damion Wilson, MSW
Coordinator School Social Worker
Catina Anderson MSW, LSW, CSAYC, BSW
Member-At-Large
La'Toya Hines, MSW, LCSW
Member-At-Large at NABSW Executive Committee
Serginho Walker, MS, LPC, NCC
Co-Chair at NABSW Students and Emerging Leaders Committee
Ashley Waddell, LCSW, RPT™,CCTP-TRE, NCSSW
Member at NABSW Students and Emerging Leaders Committee
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMAncient Wisdom, Modern Healing: African-Centered Therapies for Black Women’s Sexual Wellness
The Pre-Colonial West African woman was revered; she ruled, protected, healed, and nurtured her community. Colonialism, systemic oppression, and widespread misogynoir have created generations of sexual trauma for Black women and their families. From Mammies, Jezebels, and Sapphires to Hoochie Mamas, Hoes, and Thots, the sexual lives of Black women have always been heavily scrutinized.

Track: Health and Wellness
1.5 CEUs
Ceara Corry, MSW, MPA, LCSW, LISW-CP
MSW, MPA, LCSW, LISW-CP
Room: Monroe
9:30 AM - 11:30 AMExploring APOL-1 Mediated Kidney Disease among Afro-descendants and Health Inequities in Chronic Kidney Disease
This session will explore APOL-1 Mediated Kidney Disease, the significance of family health history, and the role of social determinants of health in understanding the risks associated with kidney disease. Join us to explore strategies for integrating culturally appropriate approaches and multidisciplinary healthcare teams to enhance kidney health outcomes in communities of Afro-descendants.

Track: Health and Wellness
2 CEUs
Patrick O. Gee, Sr., PhD, JLC
AKF Ambassador and Board Member at American Kidney Fund
Anika Lucas, MD, MTS
Assistant Professor of Medicine at Nephrology Fellow at Duke University
Andrea Moore, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker at DaVita Kidney Care
Room: Jefferson
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMTracking the History of the Child Welfare System: It’s Role in Breaking Up and Controlling Black Families
This workshop will explore the history of the child welfare system, with particular attention to legislation, policies and practices that have worked to police, control and separate Black families. It will trace initiatives NABSW has undertaken to advocate against racist and ill-informed practices and legislation; and identify current initiatives to oppose and repeal legislation that is not in the best interest of Black families and children.

Track: Child Welfare and Family
CEU: 1.5
Toni Oliver, MSW
Consultant
Room: Madison
9:30 AM - 11:30 AMHIV Education and Prevention Panel: Empowerment, Education and Advocacy
This panel is transformatively designed to address HIV/AIDS through culturally relevant education, lived experiences and community-based approaches. Rooted in African traditions of collective responsibility and holistic wellness, this workshop aims to empower participants with the tools needed to prevent, manage, and advocate for HIV awareness within their communities.

Track: Health and Wellness
CEU: 2
DeKeitra Griffin, MPA, MSW, BS
Graduate Research Assistant School of Social Work at Louisiana State University
Aramis Jones, BA
Renew Mobile Health
DeMarcus Jones, BA
Planned Parenthood of Tennessee & North Mississippi
Zakia McKensey
Executive Director Nationz Foundation
Nanci Rozier
Survivor
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMNavigating African-centeredness in NON- African-centered spaces
This session will review the African-centered values and concepts which are foundational in nature to the scope of practice. We will discuss challenges faced in practice as we marshal our expertise in our communities. We will discuss the importance of incorporating African-centeredness within the full scope of who we are personally and professionally to perfect our practice.

Track: Social Work Practice
1.5 CEUs
Karen Allen, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Clinical Director
Room: Dominion
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMSawbonna: Exploring Urban Rites of Passage Models for Black Men and Boys
This workshop will delve into the benefits of using an African-centered Rites of Passage framework to engage black men and boys around healthy lifestyles, further fueling this sense of hope. The Baltimore Rites of Passage Initiative (BROPI) is a beacon of community-based African-centered Rites of Passage (ROP) programming for Black men and boys from 11 to eldership.

Track: Founding Prinicples and Values
1.5 CEUs
David Miller, PhD
Senior Technical Writer/Researcher
Room: Commonwealth
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMShared Pan African Experiences with Black Social Workers and Allies during the 43rd International Education Conference in Ghana: A Qualitative Focus Group Study
Through Afrocentric education, Black Social Workers learn to determine what is in our interest, distinguish our interests from those of others, and recognize when our interests are consistent and inconsistent. It provides a means for the transmission into social work practice concepts of African values, beliefs, traditions, customs, rituals, and mythologies, along with the knowledge of why these things must be sustained.

Track: Social Work Education
1.5 CEUs
Amber Davis, PhD, LMSW, LCSW -C
Darron Garner, PhD, LCSW-S
Kristi Love, MSW
Eveangel Savage, PhD
Room: Shenandoah
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMLeonard G. Dunston African Centered Nea Onnim Circle (Closed Session - Academy & Circle Alumni Only)
This session is only open to Leonard G. Dunston African-Centered Nea Onnim Circle Class of 2024-2025, and Academy and Circle alumni. This session is intended to provide a basic theoretical and conceptual orientation to African-centered Social Work Practice. At this stage of development, the course is designed to engage participants in a discussion of the requirements necessary for the development of an accurate understanding of African people in the United States through an examination of the African and African American experience in both its historical and contemporary contexts. As part of a holistic approach, content of the course is directed towards a critical examination of social work from an African-centered perspective. Thus, the course is intended to be descriptive, theoretical, practice-focused, experiential, provocative and emancipatory.

Track: Social Work Education
1.5 CEUs
Rhonda Wells-Wilbon, PhD
Professor of Social Work at Morgan State University
Salon A, B, C, D, E, F
1:15 PM - 3:45 PMOpening Plenary
Join us for a powerful opening plenary session that sets the tone for our conference themed Social Work is Determination, Opportunity, Power, Equity, centering the resilience, leadership, and transformative impact of Black Social Workers. This session will explore the pressing social, political, and economic issues affecting Black communities and the role of African-Centered social work in driving systemic change. Through inspiring keynots and engaging discussions, we will reaffirm our commitment to justice, advocacy, and collective empowerment in the face of evolving challenges.

Track: Social Issues/Civil Liberties
0.5 CEUs
Bishop S. Janine Hyman, PhD
Kingdom Life Apostolic Movement
Capital Ballroom
5:30 PM - 7:30 PMYou Down With OPP”: “Knowing Your Place vs. Owning your Place and Position
Many individuals (micro) and organizations (macro) do not have a clear understanding of their roles and layers of those roles based on responsibilities. This session will help you identify your role, therefore allowing one to own both place and position in the larger systems perspective. In this session we will use this foundation as a tool to help social workers to improve your client/organizational assessments and care plans in macro and micro environments.

Track: Social Work Practice
0.5 CEUs
Leticia Horry, MSW
Leukemia and Myeloma Programs – Administrative Assistant Senior at University of Michigan
Capital Ballroom 3
5:30 PM - 7:30 PMBlack Child Don't you Weep: Using an Empathic and Culturally Informed Approach to Engage Children and Adolescents Experiencing Grief and Loss
Black children and adolescents experiencing grief and loss are especially vulnerable to psychological, physiological, and behavioral challenges that could occur when their anguish is inadequately managed. The negative effects of grief are exacerbated when it is compounded by factors such as systemic racism and complex trauma experienced from prolonged exposure to adversity, abuse, or neglect.

Track: Youth Development
0.5 CEUs
Kameko Styles, LICSW; LCSW-C
Director of Youth, Birth Family, and Community Engagement at National Center for Children and Families
Capital Ballroom 4
5:30 PM - 7:30 PMReclaiming Power: African-Centered Leadership Child Welfare
This presentation emphasizes the importance of African-centered practices in developing effective child welfare leaders. This presentation explores how African-centered practices, combined with effective leadership strategies, can drive systemic change while preparing social workers for leadership roles that reflect these values.

Track: Child Welfare & Family Preservation
0.5 CEUs
Dana Burndell Wilson, PhD
Associate Professor of Social Work and Interim Chair of the MSW Department at the Morgan State University School of Social Work at Morgan State University School of Social Work
Belinda Smith, PhD, LCSW
Associate Professor, Social Work, MSW Department at Morgan State University at Morgan State University
Capital Ballroom 5
5:30 PM - 7:30 PMAddressing Childhood Trauma Among Social Work Students Attending HBCUs
The aim of this workshop is to provide a discussion on whether we, as professional social work educators and institutions of higher education are equipped to effectively address students’ self-reported mental health needs resulting from their trauma influenced backgrounds.

Track: Social Work Education
0.5 CEUs
Lisa Workman, PhD, LCSWA, LSW
Director of BSW Program NC Agricultural and Technical State University
Room: Salon J
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMBlack Perspectives of Course Design for Black Issues
This interactive workshop leads participants through the process of creating courses that prepare emerging social workers to address anti-Black racism in practice from a decolonized, social justice perspective. Participants will examine the structural determinants of Black physical and mental health and explore the impact of anti-Black racism on Black communities.

Track: Social Work Education
1.5 CEUs
Monique Bostic, DSW, LCSW
Constance Perkins, DSW, LCSW
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMA.I. Ancestral Intelligence, Traditional African Spirituality, and the Re-Birth of the Black Family in America
The workshop will focus on Ancestral Healing from the wounds of the MAAFA (Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade). The workshop will explore the power of Ancestral Veneration and its historical role in the Maroonage (Liberation) Movements in the Western Hemisphere. Participants will also be exposed to traditional forms of Ancestral Technology (Ancestral Altars) and Rituals that are used to Re-Awaken Ancestral Collective Consciousness.

Track: Founding Principles and Values
1.5 CEUs
Amanda Morgan, LCSW-C
MSW Practicum Director, Chamberlain University
Okomfo Olufemi Shepsu, MSW
Room: Salon I
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMThe Use of Flow Arts & Hula Hoop Activity to Understand Nguzo Saba as an alternative Mental Health, Therapeutic and Wellness Intervention
The purpose of this workshop is to educate social workers on the historical impact of dislocation on our mental health, to offer alternative mental health treatment approaches and encourage practitioners to provide the information back to their prospective communities.

Track: Mental Health & Addictive Behaviors
1.5 CEUs
Shawneladee Cole, PhD, LCSW-R
Room: Salon H
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMLet’s Talk about Opposition in Adolescence through an African-Centered Lens: Changing the Way We See, Understand, and Relate to Adolescents in Our Lives!
This workshop will discuss the need for opposition to be seen on a continuum with healthy and constructive degrees of opposition as part of typical development at one end of the continuum and opposition as a disorder at the other end. This view of opposition as a disorder is limiting and puts adults in conflict with youth.

Track: Youth Development
1.5 CEUs
Tawanda Hubbard, DSW, MSW, LCSW
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMThe Black Bear Project: Honoring the Voices of Mothers Raising Black and Brown Sons
This session, inspired by the Black Bear Project, is designed to explore the profound impact of traditional gender roles on mothers raising Black and Brown sons, even when fathers are present and involved. Anchored by a powerful photo exhibit and mini-documentary, the workshop delves into the unique challenges these mothers face in navigating societal expectations.

Track: Child Welfare and Family Preservation
1.5 CEUs
Dayeshell Muhammad, EdD
Room: Salon G
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMMindfulness, Somatic Movement, and African-Centered Practices for Black Men in Social Work
This workshop proposes an opportunity for social workers to address effective social work practices with a critical examination of the integration of mindfulness, somatic movement, African-centered practices, and learn about evidence-based programs to enhance interventions with Black men. This proposal will explore how combining mindfulness-based practices and somatic therapies.

Track: Social Work Practice
1.5 CEUs
Camille Banks-Lee, DSW
Shawna Aarons-Cooke, DSW, LCSWR
President & CEO of Blanton-Peale Institute and Counseling Center
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMIntegrating African-Centered Approaches into Wellness
This presentation will explore the integration of African Centered Wellness strategies into the professional development of Black Social Workers, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach the unique challenges faced by Black Social Workers.

Track: Health and Wellness
1.5 CEUs
Latanya Townsend, PhD
Executive Director of Embracive Wellness
Room: Monroe
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMSuicide Prevention Among Young African American Males: Implications for Evidence-Based Practice
The decidedly unfortunate and startlingly alarming phenomenon of suicide among your African American males, (ages 15-24) continues to perplex social workers, school guidance counselors, and behavioral scientists. This workshop will explore the origins of these trends, and will also provide participants with culturally specific, evidence-based approaches for intervention.

Track: Youth Development
1.5 CEUs
Oliver Johnson, PhD, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Professor
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMBody Talk: The Tale of Afrocentric Healing
This workshop will explore the integration of Afrocentric healing practices into contemporary social work through a case study examining two therapeutic lenses: Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Each approach will be analyzed through an African-centered worldview, emphasizing their compatibility with the foundational principles of African-centered social work.

Track: Social Work Practice
1.5 CEUs
La' Toya Edwards, DSW, LCSW
Shae Ivie-Williams, MA, LPCC, CPCS, LPC
Therapist|Private Practitioner
Room: Jefferson
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMYoga and Mental Health in Black Communities
This workshop will provide education about the history of yoga (including its origins in Kemet),
basic principles of yoga, its relationship with mental health, and how to incorporate it into
treatment planning. This workshop will also illustrate the mind-body connection and
demonstrate how to utilize three of the eight limbs of yoga: asana (poses), pranayama (breath
work), and pratyahara (withdrawal of senses) to support mental health. This can be impactful in
addressing the effects of direct trauma as well as intergenerational trauma in Black
communities.
Keisha Cox, LCSW, MS
Therapist
Room: Madison
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMKeeping Kids in the Home and out of the system: The culture of system involved youth
Participants will be introduced to the concept of “the culture” of system-involved youth. The culture concept is adapted from ecological systems theory (EST) developed by Bronfenbrenner in 1979, The theory posits that a person’s environment influences how they will develop.

Track: Youth Development
1.5 CEUs
Lisa Hill, PhD, LMFT
Psychotherapist/Professor
Room: Dominion
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMBring It to the Circle: An African-Centered Approach to Problem Solving, A Fishbowl Exploration
This workshop is designed to provide an immersive and collaborative experience for participants to engage in the practice of African-centered solutions to contemporary issues. Rooted in the principles of African communalism, this workshop draws on the rich traditions of collective wisdom, dialogue, and Ubuntu to approach complex challenges facing African and African-descended communities today.

Track: Founding Principles and Values
1.5 CEUs
Keisha Allen, DMin
BFDI International Training Institute
Room: Commonwealth
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMIntegrating Social Media in Mental Health Therapy: Best Practices, Benefits, and Ethical Considerations for the Black Community
Social media plays a significant role in the Black community across all age groups. From Facebook and Instagram to TikTok and online forums, social media platforms are reshaping communication, and even mental health. This workshop will explore how social media can be effectively and ethically utilized in mental health care.

Track: Mental Health and Addictive Behaviors
1.5 CEUs
Tiffany Person, LMSW
Therapist
4:00 PM - 5:30 PMYes You Can! Preparing for the Social Work Licensing Exam
You may be feeling discouraged, anxious , and overwhelmed with the need to pass your social work licensing exam thereby hindering your ability to enhance your professional development and career growth. This workshop is an opportunity to help you take what you have learned, identify the biases and make it applicable to the exam so that you can be successful in passing.

Track: Social Work Education
1.5 CEUs
Wendy Alias, LCSW, LICSW
Room: Shenandoah
10:30 AM - 12:00 PMLeonard G. Dunston African Centered Nea Onnim Circle Graduation (Open Session)
This graduation celebrates the 2024-2025 cohort of the Leonard G. Dunston African Centered Nea Onnim Circle
Rhonda Wells-Wilbon, PhD
Professor of Social Work at Morgan State University
Salon A, B, C, D, E, F
8:00 AM - 10:15 AMJoan E. Coleman Family Symposium - "Social Workers In Action"
As Black Social Workers, we are ethically bound to the NABSW code of ethics to advocate for social change and challenge policies that harm marginalized communities. This interactive workshop will equip participants with concrete action steps to address the current presidential administration’s policies that negatively impact the Black community. Participants will explore key policy issues, engage in strategic advocacy planning, and develop skills for community organizing, policy intervention, and mobilizing resources. Together, we will create a roadmap for action that empowers social workers to drive systemic change at local, state, and national levels.

Track: Social Issues/Civil Liberties
2.0 CEUs
Keisha Allen, DMin
BFDI International Training Institute
Lurie Daniel Favors, Esq
Executive Director of Center for Law and Social Justice at Medgar Evers College
Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C
Chief Executive Officer, NASW
Daryl Fraser, MSW, LCSW
Richmond ABSW/Local Programs Co-Chair
12:45 PM - 3:00 PMCenie "Jomo" Williams, Jr. Luncheon
This event pays tribute to NABSW Founder, First President (1970-1974), Executive Director and Ancestor, SC native son Cenie "Jomo" Williams, Jr. for his vision, leadership and tireless efforts to galvanize Black Social Workers and other helping professionals of African Ancestry to be the voice and face of Brown and Black Communities.

Track: Social Issues/Civil Liberties
0.5 CEUs
April Ryan, BS
Washington Bureau Chief and Senior White House Correspondent at The Black Press USA
Room: Salon J
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMBlack Resistance: The Meaning of August 5th
This workshop will define Black Resistance, honor the many contributions of Black Resistance from around the globe as an effort to elicit a commitment to be intentional in the use of self-embodying the principles of NABSW’s code of ethics regardless of age, education or experience and tap into our most basic intellect and instinct embedded in our DNA to act and move the needle towards social action and civil liberties daily.

Track: Founding Principles and Values
1.5 CEUs
Jataun Rollins, LCSW
William H Davis, Jr., LPC
Counselor at Afro-Group
Franann Frempong, LSW
Travel Medical Social Worker
Room: Salon I
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMFatherhood Manologues Workshop
This workshop provides a unique opportunity to explore the profound impact of fatherhood and the experiences of being fathered through storytelling and reflection. It allows social workers to better understand the diverse narratives surrounding fatherhood, which can enhance their practice and interventions with clients.

Track: Social Work Practice
1.5 CEUs
Abdul-Rahmaan Muhammad, MSW
Room: Salon H
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMExamining Barriers to Housing Stability for Homeless Black Veterans
This workshop explores the urgent issue of housing instability among Black Veterans, who are disproportionately represented in the homeless Veteran population. This workshop will provide a comprehensive examination of the root causes of this disparity and propose culturally tailored interventions to mitigate these challenges.

Track: Military
1.5 CEUs
Kianna Laing, LCSW-C, LMSW
Room: Salon G
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMGirls Under Fire 2024
The current climate underscores an urgent need to focus on the well-being of black and brown girls, whose experiences are heavily influenced by societal perceptions. Critical areas requiring attention include mental health, adultification, and the role of social media. As rates of suicide among young black girls rise, it becomes essential to identify and address the underlying factors contributing to this crisis.

Track:
1.5 CEUs
Melissa Fanning, MS, BS
Room: Monroe
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMAddressing the Adversities in African American Families through an Experiential Exploration for Innovative Interventions and Systems Change
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACESs) are traumatic experiences which may have negative long-lasting effects on the health and wellbeing of children through adulthood. ACEs are a reality for many individuals and families. This simulation experience was developed to provide a glimpse of the effects of early and chronic traumatic experiences such as abuse, neglect, and exposure to substance abuse, mental illness and violence in homes and communities.

Track: Youth Development
1.5 CEUs
Benjenus Jenkins, LCSWA, LCAS-A
Danette McLaurin Glass
Natasha Worthy, MSW
VP Program Services at First Team America, LLC
Room: Jefferson
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMApplication of Africana-Centered Social Work Practices Through Curriculum Collaboration Strategies between Social Work and Africana Studies: Insights and Efforts
Responding to EPAS 2022 and its commitment to advancing Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI), the College of Social Work at the University of Tennessee has explored varied approaches for incorporating ADEI principles and practice within the course content, field practicum, and into curriculum design, courses, and course content the curriculum. One of these approaches included a comprehensive assessment of ADEI content in the curriculum.

Track: Social Work Education
1.5 CEUs
Mary Gitau, PhD
Associate Dean of Equity and Inclusion at College of Social Work, University of Tennessee
Shayla Nunnally, PhD
Department Head and Professor of Africana Studies at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Room: Madison
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMWhat Works Shouldn't Hurt: Conducting African-Centered Research & Evaluations
Conducting research and program evaluations using the Synergy Framework encourages researchers, and clinicians that use evidence-based research to inform their practice, to name the barriers and opportunities within both the individual and collective experience of communities of color and operationalize these issues within research.

Track: Social Work Practice
1.5 CEUs
Akosoa McFadgion, PhD, MSW
Clinical Director, Researcher, Adjunct Professor
12:45 PM - 2:15 PMBlueprint for Financial Success
This workshop drives home the importance of having a solid foundation of financial skillsets to be successful financially.
Linda Poole, CPA, WMCP®
Financial Advisor
Room: Dominion
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMThe Uniqueness of the Effective Black Parenting Program for African American Parents
This session will present an evidence-based African-centered model for teaching African American parents. This is a train-the-trainer approach. Participants will become familiar with the foundation and components of the Program and learn how to access full 5-day remote training to become certified facilitators.

This is a train-the-trainer approach. Participants will become familiar with the foundation and components of the Program, and learn how to access full 5-day remote training to become certified facilitators. After training, participants will be given a toolkit to educate parents on the local level. Strategies will include Effective Praise, Effective Verbal Confrontation, Family Rule Guidelines, The Thinking Parents Approach, Teaching their Children Pride in Blackness, and Teaching their Children How to Help the Black Community. Parents will also teach their children how to respond to micro-aggressions and macro-aggressions.

Track: Child Welfare and Family Preservation
1.5 CEUs
Kinaya Sokoya, EdD, CSWM
Executive Director|Consultant
Room: Shenandoah
11:00 AM - 12:30 PMUbuntu Rising: Academy & Leonard G. Dunston African Centered Nea Onnim Circle Graduates Homecoming (Closed Session - Academy & Circle Graduates Only)
This closed meeting is an exclusive gathering of graduates from the National Association of Black Social Workers Academy and the Nea Onnim Circle, designed to reconnect, reflect, and strategize on the continued impact of African-centered social work. Through collective dialogue and shared experiences, participants will explore the transformative work they have been engaged in, reaffirm their commitment to culturally grounded practices, and develop actionable steps for sustaining and expanding their influence in the lives of people of African ancestry.

Track: Social Work Education
CEUs - 1.5
Rhonda Wells-Wilbon, PhD
Professor of Social Work at Morgan State University
12:45 PM - 2:15 PMLeonard G. Dunston African Centered Nea Onnim Healing Circle (Open Session)
The Leonard G. Dunston African-Centered Nea Onnim Healing Circle is a sacred space designed exclusively for members of the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW). Rooted in African cultural traditions, communal wisdom, and the principle of Nea Onnim No Sua A, Ohu ("He who does not know can learn"), this healing circle provides a transformative space for self-care, empowerment, and resilience-building.

Recognizing the emotional and psychological toll of working with and advocating for oppressed Black populations, this healing circle equips participants with culturally grounded strategies to strengthen their well-being. Through guided reflection, storytelling, mindfulness, and African-centered rituals, participants cultivate the inner balance needed to sustain their professional and advocacy efforts.

Track: Health & Wellness
1.5 CEU
Rhonda Wells-Wilbon, PhD
Professor of Social Work at Morgan State University
Salon A, B, C, D, E, F
8:30 AM - 10:45 AMDr. Gerald K. Smith Social Issues Symposium - "The Power of Determination"
The Gerald K. Smith Social Issues Symposium honors our ancestor, Dr. Smith. As the 6th National President, his life’s work was devoted to building the village and empowering communities. The Social Issues forum is a time where Black Social Workers recharge and refocus on the current social issues impacting our communities.

Track: Social Issues/Civil Liberties
2.0 CEUs
Dr. Yusef Salaam
Councilman at New York City Council, District 9
Colita Fairfax, PhD
Professor at Norfolk State University
7:00 PM - 9:00 PMDr. Morris F.X. Jeff, Jr. Harambee Ceremony
The Harambee Ceremony honors our history and the legacy of 5th National President, the ancestor, Dr. Morris F. X. Jeff, Jr. (Sankofahene Barima Odi Akosah), a social worker, a philosopher, a scholar, a cultural warrior and an advocate for the children that believed in the spirit and joy of Sankofa. This legend was also charismatic, charming, and in essence, a gentle giant. Although death silenced his earthly voice in 2003, the spirit of Dr. Jeff abides with us still.

Track: Social Issues/Civil Liberties
0.5 CEUs
Rev. Mark A. Thompson, MDiv

Conference Speakers

Shawna Aarons-Cooke, DSW, LCSWR
President & CEO of Blanton-Peale Institute and Counseling Center
Linwood Alford, MSW, BHT, HST, QMHP A/C
Owner at Open Door Resource Center Inc
Wendy Alias, LCSW, LICSW
Keisha Allen, DMin
BFDI International Training Institute
Karen Allen, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Clinical Director
Catina Anderson MSW, LSW, CSAYC, BSW
Member-At-Large
Camille Banks-Lee, DSW
Monique Bostic, DSW, LCSW
Jacqueline Braxton, MSW, LCSW
Licensed Examination Development Project Coordinator at Association of Social Work Boards
Dionne Brown-Bushrod, MSW, LCSW-C
Director of Education Programs at Association of Social Work Boards
Dana Burndell Wilson, PhD
Associate Professor of Social Work and Interim Chair of the MSW Department at the Morgan State University School of Social Work at Morgan State University School of Social Work
Jaire Clarida, MSW, LMSW, LCSW-A
PhD Student at Morgan State University School of Social Work
Shawneladee Cole, PhD, LCSW-R
Ceara Corry, MSW, MPA, LCSW, LISW-CP
MSW, MPA, LCSW, LISW-CP
Keisha Cox, LCSW, MS
Therapist
Lurie Daniel Favors, Esq
Executive Director of Center for Law and Social Justice at Medgar Evers College
William H Davis, Jr., LPC
Counselor at Afro-Group
Amber Davis, PhD, LMSW, LCSW -C
La' Toya Edwards, DSW, LCSW
Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C
Chief Executive Officer, NASW
Colita Fairfax, PhD
Professor at Norfolk State University
Melissa Fanning, MS, BS
Daryl Fraser, MSW, LCSW
Richmond ABSW/Local Programs Co-Chair
Franann Frempong, LSW
Travel Medical Social Worker
Darron Garner, PhD, LCSW-S
Patrick O. Gee, Sr., PhD, JLC
AKF Ambassador and Board Member at American Kidney Fund
Jermel Gilliam, DMin, ABD, LMSW
Christa Gilliam, PhD
Associate Professor
Mary Gitau, PhD
Associate Dean of Equity and Inclusion at College of Social Work, University of Tennessee
DeKeitra Griffin, MPA, MSW, BS
Graduate Research Assistant School of Social Work at Louisiana State University
Lisa Hill, PhD, LMFT
Psychotherapist/Professor
La'Toya Hines, MSW, LCSW
Member-At-Large at NABSW Executive Committee
Bobby Holmes, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
OwnerFounder
Leticia Horry, MSW
Leukemia and Myeloma Programs – Administrative Assistant Senior at University of Michigan
Tawanda Hubbard, DSW, MSW, LCSW
Bishop S. Janine Hyman, PhD
Kingdom Life Apostolic Movement
Shae Ivie-Williams, MA, LPCC, CPCS, LPC
Therapist|Private Practitioner
Benjenus Jenkins, LCSWA, LCAS-A
Tiffany Johnson, EdD, LCPC, MBA
Chief Operating Officer at Lakeside Community Committee
Oliver Johnson, PhD, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Professor
Aramis Jones, BA
Renew Mobile Health
DeMarcus Jones, BA
Planned Parenthood of Tennessee & North Mississippi
Kianna Laing, LCSW-C, LMSW
Kathy Lopes, MSW, LICSW
DEI Director of Newton Public Schools
Kristi Love, MSW
Anika Lucas, MD, MTS
Assistant Professor of Medicine at Nephrology Fellow at Duke University
Akosoa McFadgion, PhD, MSW
Clinical Director, Researcher, Adjunct Professor
Zakia McKensey
Executive Director Nationz Foundation
Danette McLaurin Glass
David Miller, PhD
Senior Technical Writer/Researcher
Andrea Moore, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker at DaVita Kidney Care
Amanda Morgan, LCSW-C
MSW Practicum Director, Chamberlain University
Dayeshell Muhammad, EdD
Abdul-Rahmaan Muhammad, MSW
Lisa Zakia Newland, PhD
Full Professor and the Chairperson of the Department of Social Work at Molloy University
Shayla Nunnally, PhD
Department Head and Professor of Africana Studies at University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Toni Oliver, MSW
Consultant
Okomfo Olufemi Shepsu, MSW
Constance Perkins, DSW, LCSW
Tiffany Person, LMSW
Therapist
Tonya Phillips, PhD, LCSW-C, LCADC
Director
Linda Poole, CPA, WMCP®
Financial Advisor
Jataun Rollins, LCSW
Tracey Rollins Spann, LMSW
Chandra Roxanne, MS, MA
Nanci Rozier
Survivor
April Ryan, BS
Washington Bureau Chief and Senior White House Correspondent at The Black Press USA
Dr. Yusef Salaam
Councilman at New York City Council, District 9
Eveangel Savage, PhD
Michelle Seymore, MPNA
Belinda Smith, PhD, LCSW
Associate Professor, Social Work, MSW Department at Morgan State University at Morgan State University
KS
Kinaya Sokoya, EdD, CSWM
Executive Director|Consultant
Nathan Stephens, PhD, LMSW
Assistant Professor at Illinois State University
Kameko Styles, LICSW; LCSW-C
Director of Youth, Birth Family, and Community Engagement at National Center for Children and Families
Rev. Mark A. Thompson, MDiv
Latanya Townsend, PhD
Executive Director of Embracive Wellness
Ashley Waddell, LCSW, RPT™,CCTP-TRE, NCSSW
Member at NABSW Students and Emerging Leaders Committee
Serginho Walker, MS, LPC, NCC
Co-Chair at NABSW Students and Emerging Leaders Committee
Rita Walters, PhD, LMSW
Department Chair and Professor at Ferris State University
Rhonda Wells-Wilbon, PhD
Professor of Social Work at Morgan State University
Damion Wilson, MSW
Coordinator School Social Worker
Lisa Workman, PhD, LCSWA, LSW
Director of BSW Program NC Agricultural and Technical State University
Natasha Worthy, MSW
VP Program Services at First Team America, LLC

ANNOUNCEMENTS - APRIL 16, 2025