Niagara University-Social Work

ACSW, program director of Niagara University’s social work department, has been selected to receive the Social Worker of the Year Award from the New York State Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). The prestigious award will be presented to her at a celebration dinner on Dec. 5. Dr. Laverman recently received the Frances S. Engel Social Worker of the Year award from the Western New York Chapter of the NASW. Both awards recognize the variety of services she provides in the community. The NASW selected Dr. Laverman for both honors as a reflection of her "remarkable commitment and contribution to the social work profession."

Dr. Laverman, an Associate Professor of Social Work, has demonstrated a deep concern for the problems of Social Work practitioners and their clients by providing regular in-service trainings for various health and human services agencies across the WNY region and assisting agencies with evaluating their programs. Dr. Laverman is also a strong advocate for her students. She has a talent for challenging and motivating students to become committed, dedicated professionals. Dr. Laverman’s contributions to the field of Social Work, combined with her professional leadership, have inspired others to advocate for positive change.

Since 1994, Dr. Laverman has served as the Program Director in Niagara University’s Department of Social Work. She earlier was an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Southern Mississippi and served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work at the University of Valparaiso from 1987 through 1989.

Dr. Laverman earned her Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work in 1986. Prior to joining the academic field, she worked as a practitioner in various agencies. She has received many awards, including the 2001 Niagara University College of Arts and Sciences Excellence in Service Award, the 1999 Community Service/Leadership Award from the New York State Social Work Education Association; and the Social Service Award from the School of Social Work at the University of Southern Mississippi, 1989 – 1992. Dr. Laverman has presented at numerous international, national and state professional conferences. She is serving on a number of Niagara University boards and committees as well as on state and local boards, such as The Center for Independent Living located in Niagara Falls. She is an active member of local, state and national social work organizations and associations.