Published May 5, 2021
The National Association of Social Workers, Louisiana Chapter (NASW-LA) has named
Pamela Saulsberry, Ph.D., Louisiana Social Worker of the Year.
Professor Saulsberry serves as Executive Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity
and Inclusion at the University of Louisiana Monroe. She will receive the award at
the NASW-LA Conference in June.
NASW-LA Executive Director Ayn Stehr said the committee's decision was unanimous,
calling Saulsberry "a model for other social workers and students" who has "contributed
positively to the profession in a meaningful and lasting way."
"Of all the awards I have been blessed to receive, this one means the most," Saulsberry
said, adding that she chose to become a social worker as an 18-year-old college freshman.
Saulsberry said the six core values of the profession, especially service, social
justice, and respect for the dignity and worth of persons, resonated with her then
and continues to this day.
"Of all the awards I have been blessed to receive, this one means the most. Social
work is a calling, and I have never regretted answering that call."
Dr. Pamela Saulsberry
"Social work is a calling, and I have never regretted answering that call," she said.
The award is given annually to the candidate who exemplifies the best of the profession's
values and achievements through specific accomplishments.
Candidates for the award must meet stringent criteria, among them, having made a demonstrable
difference in advocating for clients, impacting social policy, and demonstrating outstanding
leadership.
In addition to her role in ULM's Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Saulsberry
has served as ULM College of Business and Social Sciences School of Behavioral and
Social Sciences director and the Social Work program coordinator.
Among her numerous other awards are the ULM Foundation Award of Excellence, the Association
of Black Social Workers' Regional Humanitarian of the Year, and the CAMEO Award for
Outstanding Leadership in Education for March of Dimes.
"Dr. Saulsberry is an outstanding clinician, a brilliant teacher, and a tireless mentor,
who has literally trained generations of students to the highest academic and ethical
standards," said William McCown. Ph.D., professor, and Interim Director and Program
Coordinator of the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences.
"Her sense of fairness, creativity, commitment, and compassion are known throughout
the campus, the community, and the state," he concluded.
