President-Elect
Karen Bullock (MA)
Biography: Bullock is the Ahearn Endowed Professor at Boston College School of Social Work. She earned a PhD in Sociology and Social Work from Boston University; MSW from Columbia University; and BSW from North Carolina State University. An NASW member for more than 30 years, Bullock has served in several leadership positions including: vice president and president of the NASW Connecticut Chapter; chair of the Mental Health SPS committee; and currently is chair of the National Committee on Racial and Ethnic Diversity. She is a nationally recognized expert in hospice and palliative care and an LICSW with more than three decades of clinical experience. Bullock recently was inducted as an NASW Social Work Pioneer®.
Platform Statement: As a licensed independent clinical social worker with more than three decades of mental health practice experience, who has served in various NASW appointed and elected leadership positions, it is my honor to be considered for the position of President-elect. At a time when our profession is facing extraordinary human rights challenges that will require bipartisan collectivism and volunteerism going forward, it is with integrity and honor that I ask for your vote of confidence. Together, we can work to advance social policies, enhance our professional growth and development as members, create and maintain professional standards aligned with our Code of Ethics. If elected, I will provide essential leadership that builds upon the strength of our commitment to dignity and self-worth of all people, continuing to advance the mission, vision and goals of our professional organization, NASW, to meet the needs of its diverse membership and communities that we serve.
Victor Manalo (CA)
Biography: Manalo is the immediate past president of the NASW California Chapter and former chair of the NASW Council of Chapter Presidents. He is a member of the NASW Committee on Racial and Ethnic Diversity; the Delegate Assembly planning task force; and the NASW Insurance Company’s board of directors. Manalo earned a PhD in Social Work from the University of Southern California and an MSW from California State University, Long Beach. For more than 25 years, he has taught policy, political practice, and community organizing in the School of Social Work at CSU, Los Angeles. Manalo is a former mayor and council member for the city of Artesia, Calif.
Platform Statement: I am committed to strengthening NASW and our profession through strategic focus on recruitment, retention, and engagement of social workers. We must empower and support each and every one of NASW’s 55 chapters to: 1) fiercely recruit new social work members, especially those from underrepresented groups across all levels of practice, to ensure a diverse and inclusive association; 2) vigorously retain our members by fostering a supportive environment that values each social worker’s unique contributions and strengthening professional development conferences, webinars, and symposia; and 3) energetically engage members through meaningful, accessible opportunities for connection and advocacy that will empower us to unite for the common good, advance social justice, and amplify the impact of our profession! Together, we will build a stronger NASW that serves as THE resource and voice for social workers nationwide. Vote online starting on May 1, 2025: Victor Manalo for President-Elect, NASW Board of Directors.
Secretary
Francie Julien-Chinn (HI)
Biography: Julien-Chinn is an associate professor at the Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health, University of Hawaii at Mānoa. She obtained her BSW from Northern Arizona University and her MSW and PhD from Arizona State University. Julien-Chinn has been on the board of the NASW Hawaii Chapter since 2018, where she held multiple positions prior to being elected president. She also is a member of the Council on Social Work Education and the Society for Social Work and Research.
Platform Statement: I am humbled to be considered for the position of Secretary of the NASW Board of Directors. I have been a social worker for 25 years and am dedicated to the profession. I am President of the NASW Hawai’i Chapter Board of Directors where I have served in various capacities since 2018 and am eager to advance my passion for advocating for social work at the national level. I have experience in leadership within the child welfare workforce and in academia, where I serve as the MSW program chair. As Secretary of the NASW Board, I will bring my knowledge of the social work profession, my advocacy skills, my commitment to the NASW Code of Ethics, as well as my excellent organizational skills. I am invested in ensuring representation of social work professionals from all fields. I will prioritize efforts to advocate for our social work profession.
Carly Ellman (PA)
Biography: Ellman earned a doctorate in Strategic Leadership and Administration from Marywood University and an MSW from Fordham University. She is a licensed clinical social worker in Florida and Pennsylvania. Ellman is an assistant professor of social work and program coordinator at Delaware County Community College. She maintains private clinical practice in Pennsylvania, where she works with adolescents, college students and adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Ellman has held several committee positions at NASW-Pennsylvania, and is treasurer on the board for SoulPaws, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering self-compassion through animal-assisted interventions.
Platform Statement: I am deeply committed to the mission and values of NASW, advocating for policies and initiatives that strengthen our profession and empower the individuals and communities we serve. As an LCSW in Pennsylvania and Florida, an assistant professor and program coordinator at Delaware County Community College, and a dedicated clinician, I bring a well-rounded perspective on social work practice, education, and leadership. My experience includes serving on NASW’s Northeast and Brandywine Division Steering Committees, the NASW-PA Conference Committee, and as Treasurer for SoulPaws, a nonprofit focused on cultivating self-compassion through animal-assisted interventions. With a PhD in Strategic Leadership and Administration, I am committed to fostering collaboration, mentorship, and professional development opportunities within NASW. I seek to strengthen our collective voice, advocate for social justice, and ensure NASW remains a vital resource for all social workers. I would be honored to continue serving our profession in this capacity.
Member-At-Large
Cynthia Catchings (DC)
Biography: Catchings is founder and executive director of the Women’s Emotional Wellness Center and Consulting Firm, with offices in Texas and the D.C. metro area. She is an adjunct professor at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley and a therapist, peer consultant, and Council of Experts member with Talkspace. Her work has been featured in USA Today, Teen Vogue, NBC News, Yahoo, and more. With leadership roles in family services, federal agencies, and Collective Impact initiatives, Catchings has dedicated her career to supporting underserved communities. She has conducted ethnographic research in over 45 countries, focusing on life transitions, women’s issues, and cultural awareness. Catchings is a past NASW-Texas Social Worker of the Year and NASW-D.C. board president. As an author, her 52-Week Mental Health Journal and 8-Week Depression Workbook have become best-sellers.
Platform Statement: I am honored to be considered for a position on the NASW Board, bringing extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to social work. As the founder and executive director of the Women’s Emotional Wellness Center, I have dedicated my career to fostering emotional well-being and cultural awareness across diverse communities. My roles as an adjunct professor, executive director of a family violence shelter, and leader of a Collective Impact initiative highlight my dedication to mentorship, advocacy, and collaboration. With experience as a trilingual Senior Trainer for D.C. federal agencies and ethnographic research in over 45 countries, I bring a global perspective to addressing social challenges. My leadership as President of NASW-DC and recognition as NASW-TX LRGV Social Worker of the Year reflect my dedication to our profession. I am committed to advancing NASW’s mission, supporting our members, and driving meaningful change. I would be honored to earn your support.
Aviva Vincent (OH)
Biography: Vincent is an assistant professor of social work at Cleveland State University and co-owner of Healing Paws LLC. She earned a doctorate in social welfare from Case Western Reserve University and specialized in training in Veterinary Social Work from the University of Tennessee. Her NASW involvement began in 2011 as the student representative for NASW-Connecticut. Vincent co-chaired NASW-Ohio’s Human-Animal Interaction Workgroup (2016-2019) and joined the Legislative Action Committee (2024-current). She is active in advocacy days, provides training at state conferences, and engages with local and national social work communities. Vincent is a member of PATH International, HERD Institute, Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals, and Canine Companions for Independence. She serves on the advisory board for CSU’s Animal Law Clinic and Not One More Vet. Honors include NASW-Ohio’s Region 2 Social Worker of the Year (2025); Cleveland Crain’s 40 Under 40 (2023); and Early Career Success Award (2022).
Platform Statement: I began my social work education in the community organizing track at the University of Connecticut in 2011, the same year I joined NASW. Throughout my tenure, I focused on policy and community practice, continuing this trajectory as a young professional through ongoing learning including: Results-Based Accountability for Strategic Planning, the Harwood Institute, Sustained Dialogue, and the Institute for Social Change. As a social justice advocate, I unapologetically center diversity, equity, and inclusion —encompassing access, justice, and belonging—as a clinician, educator, and researcher. I seek to serve on the NASW Board to support our shared community through innovative and forward-thinking action. My qualifications stem from my experience as a life-long learner, a community-based researcher, and relevant experience serving as a board member to this role. I commit to upholding NASW’s Code of Ethics and CSWE’s competencies. This is important work - I am prepared to take up the call to serve.
BSW Student Member
Javier Marquez (CA)
Biography: Marquez is a BSW honors student at Sacramento State University, where he is minoring in Global Engagement and Leadership, with a 3.8 GPA. He serves as an intensive case manager at Sustainable Wellness Solutions, supporting clients through resource navigation, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care. As the BSW student director for the NASW California Chapter, Marquez collaborates with schools of social work to inspire student advocacy for equity and inclusion. His work is informed by lived experience and driven by a passion for dismantling systemic barriers that affect communities of color. He is dedicated to empowering future social workers, amplifying marginalized voices, and promoting policies that foster justice and equity. Marquez aspires to becoming a psychotherapist while remaining active in NASW leadership and community advocacy.
Platform Statement: As a national leader within NASW, I will ensure that social work students are represented, empowered, and equipped to thrive. My commitment to NASW stems from a passion for social justice, mental health advocacy, and leadership development. I am dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion while challenging systemic injustice. As the BSW Student Director for NASW-CA, I have worked to amplify student voices and advocate for greater support and representation. If elected, I will continue to prioritize student engagement, foster collaboration among future social workers, and advance innovative approaches that strengthen our profession. I look forward to building a more inclusive and equitable future for social work across the country.
Zahraa Alrafish (MI)
Biography: Alrafish is the founder of Arab Women United, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women through education, leadership development, and advocacy. As Outreach and Recruitment program coordinator at ACCESS, Alrafish organizes programs that enhance financial literacy and support entrepreneurship for underserved communities. She is an honors student at Wayne State University working toward a BSW with a minor in psychology, and has earned an associate’s degree from Schoolcraft College. Alrafish is an ambassador for NASW-Michigan and Detroit Tri-County Social Work Health Careers. She also mentors students as part of the Detroit Promise program. Recognized for her leadership and community engagement, Alrafish has participated in the Ginsberg Community Leadership Fellows Program and holds certifications in Mental Health First Aid and QPR Suicide Prevention.
Platform Statement: As an honors student in the School of Social Work at Wayne State University, I am driven by a calling to uplift both communities and students through empowerment and opportunity. Founding Arab Women United has allowed me to provide women with access to resources, mentorship, and leadership development, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their potential. Seeing the positive impact of this work fuels my passion to create lasting change for underserved communities. Students, too, deserve environments where they can thrive. As an ambassador for NASW, I proudly advocate for student voices, striving to ensure that all students have the tools, support, and opportunities needed for success. I believe in building networks of support that foster both professional and personal growth.
If elected, I will work tirelessly to amplify student voices, expand opportunities for leadership, and promote equity and empowerment for both students and communities alike.
Board Region V Director
Katharine Campbell (NC)
Biography: Campbell is a licensed clinical social worker with more than 20 years of experience. She holds a PhD in public affairs with social work emphasis. This PhD was a unique and multifaceted degree combining social work, health, public administration and criminal justice to create the one degree. She has a virtual private practice serving N.C., Florida and Tennessee, where she provides counseling services focused on first responders, LGB care, transgender-specific care, trauma-informed care and medical needs-specific care. Campbell also provides nonprofit consulting and speaking services focused on efficient and effective clinical outcomes. Campbell has served on numerous boards and has held several roles within NASW, including unit chair, conference chair and NASW-Florida board president.
Platform Statement: I am running for the Region V Director position to enhance equity and professional advancement to our field. Throughout my career, I have witnessed the systemic barriers that hinder progress and the tireless efforts of social workers striving to make a difference. I am committed to ensuring that our voices are heard, our profession is strengthened, and our communities receive the support they need. I believe in a future where all individuals have access to the resources and opportunities necessary for a dignified life. I will advocate for policies that dismantle oppression, promote human rights, and foster inclusive communities as a profession and within our profession. Social workers are the backbone of social change, yet our contributions often go unrecognized. I will advocate to ensure that our field remains dynamic and well-equipped to address evolving challenges. With your support, we can create a more just, equitable, and empowered future.
Anthony J. Hill (SC)
Biography: Hill is professor and chair of the Department of Social Work at Winthrop University. With a PhD in Social Work from Howard University, Hill specializes in psychosocial factors affecting adolescent behaviors, financial therapy, and trauma-informed care. He is a licensed social worker in multiple states and holds numerous certifications in social work management and financial therapy. Hill is an accomplished educator, researcher, practitioner, and small-business owner with over two decades of experience in academia, community leadership, and professional development. He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and presented nationally on social justice, financial health and resilience. NASW-South Carolina named Hill the 2021 Social Worker of the Year.
Platform Statement: As a candidate for NASW Region V Director, I am committed to advancing the mission of the Association by fostering collaboration, promoting professional excellence, and advocating for the needs of our diverse membership. With extensive experience in social work leadership, I aim to enhance communication between national and chapter leadership, ensuring that local concerns are represented on a national scale. My platform emphasizes financial stewardship, inclusivity, and innovation in addressing policy issues and organizational matters. By supporting membership recruitment, expanding professional development opportunities, and strengthening NASW's external partnerships, I will champion initiatives that align with our collective goals. Together, we can build a stronger Association that uplifts social workers and the communities we serve. I am eager to contribute my expertise and passion to this vital role.
Board Region VII Director
Jessica Hare (GA)
Biography: Hare serves as the MSW practicum director at St. Bonaventure University and assistant professor at Kennesaw State University. She received a DSW from University of Southern California, MSW from University of South Carolina, and BSW from Winthrop University. She is a member of NASW, Council on Social Work Education, National Association of Black Social Workers, National Black MBA Association, and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Hare has experience serving on election committees, the NASW-Georgia PACE committee, and has collaborated with NASW to bring awareness to political social work. She serves on the Public Policy Committee and the Economic Empowerment Committee for NCBW and is a board member for the Social Work Democracy Project.
Platform Statement: As a professional social worker, I remain committed to upholding the values and
principles of NASW by fostering social justice, advocating for vulnerable populations, and enhancing policies that heighten human dignity and well-being. I believe in NASW’s mission to strengthen the profession, protect human rights, and foster equitable social systems. As a social worker, I have proven to be dedicated to working collaboratively with individuals, communities, and policymakers to address systemic challenges and empower vulnerable populations. I continue to uphold the NASW Code of Ethics in every aspect of my practice, advocating for social change that is grounded in respect, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Through ongoing professional development and active engagement with NASW’s initiatives, I remain committed to contributing to the growth of the social work profession and advancing its mission in creating a more just and compassionate society.
Thomas P. Felke (FL)
Biography: Felke is executive director of the Shady Rest Institute on Positive Aging, an interdisciplinary initiative at Florida Gulf Coast University focused on older adults. He is associate dean for academics and professor of social work within the Marieb College of Health and Human Services. He received a BA degree in Elementary and Special Education from Providence College. Felke earned an MSW with concentrations in administration, policy and international issues at the University of Connecticut, as well as a PhD in social work with dissertation research in Armenia. Felke began his social work career with Catholic Charities of Southern Connecticut and moved to public service in the state’s Department of Social Services and Mental Health and Addiction Services. He has been recognized for excellence in teaching, and for his academic leadership at FGCU. In 2024, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from NASW-Florida.
Platform Statement: My time as a social work professional, academic, and volunteer leader makes me uniquely qualified to serve as NASW Director (Region VII). I am aware of the myriads of issues that face both the populations we serve as social workers and social work professionals themselves. My roles have provided me with the opportunity to collaborate with others in our mutual efforts to address the issues of our community. Our efforts to expand funding for mental health treatment, improved access to quality healthcare, increased Medicare reimbursement, and the expansion of the Social Work Licensure Compact, among many other issues, must continue. Advocacy on the compact is critically important to Region VII as a few states have still not joined. Further, population growth in Region VII states, particularly among older adults, requires expansion of Medicare reimbursement. I therefore ask that you please consider casting your vote for me as Region VII Director.
Board Region XI Director
Brandi Felderhoff (TX)
Biography: Felderhoff has 16 years of experience as a licensed social worker with practice experience in the areas of guardianship, veterans, in-patient and out-patient mental health, including rural mental health, and aging and end-of-life of issues. Felderhoff specializes in death, dying, and bereavement work with a particular focus on cultural humility and trauma-informed approaches, as well as developing competent master’s- and clinical-level social workers. She has served in numerous volunteer leadership positions with NASW-Texas and is passionate about advancing the social work profession. Felderhoff is assistant professor and the MSW coordinator of field education at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas.
Platform Statement: As a career-long member of NASW and current president of the NASW Texas chapter board, I am deeply committed to advancing the mission of our Association. NASW plays a vital role in promoting social justice, supporting the professional growth of social workers, and addressing the needs of the diverse communities we serve. As Region XI Director, I will bring a collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership, ensuring the voices of our members are heard and their concerns addressed. I am dedicated to fostering organizational growth, strengthening member engagement, and advocating for policies that elevate the social work profession. With extensive experience in leadership, advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration, I am prepared to serve the Association with integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to supporting our members and advancing NASW's mission on a national scale.
Jack Register (AZ)
Biography:
Register
is a clinical social worker and addiction clinician licensed in multiple
states. He is a PhD student in the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva
University and is former government relations staff for NASW-North Carolina, where
he worked on title protection in the private sector and mental health system
reform. Register is a “political systems interventionist” and a social worker
who responds to system dynamics rather than a micro or macro lens. He received
recognition as “One of Today’s Most Influential Social Workers” from
Social
Work Today
magazine (2007); Change Agent, Greensboro, N.C., Chamber of
Commerce (2019); Other Voices DEIB Program and UNCG School of Health and Human
Sciences Teaching Excellence Award (2012); and the National Society of
Leadership and Success Excellence in Teaching Award (2012).
Platform Statement: I'm running for the NASW Board to represent the western part of the US, particularly Arizona. As a clinical social worker, academic, practitioner, and advocate, I am concerned about the identity of social work in the US and our inability to work together to unify the profession, ensure that social work jobs are protected, and that social workers receive a livable wage. Often in agencies, we are hosted by someone who does not have our training or understand our ethics. We are destroying future generations of social workers by not supporting them in ways that those of us who’ve been around for sometime were able to enjoy. It is my goal to advocate for standardized social work salaries and to support social workers at all levels of practice. The social justice issues that are client focused are important but if we do not focus on the profession, we won't be here to take care of vulnerable people.
Board Region XII Director
Ruddy Taylor (AK)
Biography: Taylor is a mental health clinician serving families in both school and residential settings. As a licensed clinical social worker, she holds degrees from the University of Alaska Anchorage in both social work and psychology. She has been a member of NASW for more than 30 years, holding volunteer leadership positions including: NASW-Alaska President; alternate member to Delegate Assembly; and an appointment to the Task Force for the Social Work Safety Standards in the Workplace. As a member of the American Psychological Association, Taylor has served on various national committees, including APA’s Finance, Legislative and Diversity committees. She also is involved in NASW-Alaska conference planning efforts.
Platform Statement: I am seeking your vote to serve in the role of Director, Region XII. I commit to utilizing my training and experience to advance the mission of NASW. Specifically, I will utilize my skillset to work with our diverse membership to address the current needs of our members. In addition, I will continue to promote social justice issues guided by our Code of Ethics while celebrating the diversity within our profession. Finally, as part of my platform it is my goal to bring a heightened awareness of the value of mental well-being individually, collectively, and environmentally. Given the opportunity and privilege to serve as the NASW Board Director, Region XII, I look forward to meaningful collaboration and enhanced growth in the social work field. Thank you in advance for your consideration as I request your vote to be elected Director, Region XII on the NASW Board of Directors.
Lee King (NM)
Biography: King is the CEO of Project Fernando, who received a BA in individualized studies with a minor in business and counseling from New Mexico State University. King acquired an MSW with honors from Western New Mexico University and earned a graduate minor in women’s studies. King completed doctoral work in public administration at Walden University and then transferred to receive a doctorate in Christian counseling. King is a member of NASW’s Social Work and the Courts SPS committee, and a member of the Substance Use Disorders Committee of the American Correctional Association. The National Frontier & Rural Addiction Center recognized King as a Telehealth Pioneer in 2013.
Platform Statement: I’m committed to serving the NASW Board of Directors. I have been instrumental in implementing systems of care for underserved populations in New Mexico for over twenty years. Throughout my career, I’ve administered therapeutic services to neglected groups and reached into rural communities to ensure they were not overlooked. I’ve provided treatment to adults dealing with mental health issues and given care to those convicted of sexual offenses. As a behavioral health leader, I’ve managed treatment programs within correctional institutions across the country and directed community treatment programs to help families struggling with substance use. For several years, I’ve been an active member of the behavioral health council and have assisted in guiding behavioral health planning and services in New Mexico. It is important for me to invest my time in strengthening the Association by sharing my experience and knowledge with others in the field.
NCNLI Region V Representative
Tiffany Burks-Sanders (TN)
Biography: Burks-Sanders is the wellness and engagement counselor at the University of Memphis Student Health and Counseling Services, where she provides therapy, integrated behavioral health support, outreach, and health education to students. She earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies in health services administration and an MSW from the University of Memphis, and is pursuing her doctorate in social work. Dedicated to service and leadership, Burks-Sanders is an active member of the Junior League of Memphis, serves as president of the Student Social Work Organization, and is a member of NASW. Her commitment to professional development has earned her recognition as an MSW-PDI and RISE-CAY Fellow.
Platform Statement: I am committed to ensuring that NASW’s leadership truly reflects and serves its diverse membership. As a candidate for the Region V Representative on the National Committee on Nominations and Leadership Identification, I seek to identify and support leaders who not only advocate for social justice, multiculturalism, and cultural competency but actively demonstrate these values through action. I believe that representation matters and that NASW leadership should embody the ethics and principles of the profession. If elected, I will approach this role with diligence and integrity, carefully developing a slate of candidates who are not only qualified but also deeply committed to advancing the mission of NASW. I am dedicated to upholding the ethical standards of the profession and ensuring that leadership selection is intentional, inclusive, and impactful. With my dedication, NASW members can trust that their voices will be represented by leaders who lead with purpose.
Heather Dye (TN)
Biography: Dye has experience as a clinician and an educator in the social work profession. She has served as a licensed clinical social worker and certified substance abuse counselor for more than 17 years. She also served as an associate professor in the Department of Social Work at East Tennessee State University for nine years. Dye is certified in Veterinary Social Work and is the executive director of nonprofit Partner with Paws. She served on NASW-Tennessee’s Northeast Branch steering committee from 2021 to 2023. From 2021 to present, Dye has served on the chapter’s Continuing Education committee and is a member of the Tennessee Social Work Day on the Hill committee.
Platform Statement: Greetings. I am asking to be considered as a candidate for the NASW 2025 national election of volunteer leaders, specifically the position of the NCNLI Regional Representative V (NC, SC, TN). I have almost 20 years of experience in the social work profession, as a clinician and educator. I have experience serving on several NASW-TN chapter committees, which has allowed me to learn and grow within the community and region. I would be honored to be elected and further my service as a regional representative on the NCNLI. I am committed, dedicated, and responsive to fulfilling all my obligations and duties. One of my favorite quotes by Nelson Mandela is “I came to believe that a leader isn’t good because they’re right; they’re good because they’re willing to learn and to trust.”