Longtime senator and social worker supports profession

U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski (photo right), D-Md., a social worker who has served in Congress longer than any other woman in history, announced in early March that she will not seek re-election and will retire in 2016.

NASW immediately issued a statement of appreciation to Mikulski for her 38 years of leadership in Congress and for her strong and unwavering support of the social work profession and issues important to social workers.

“With almost two years remaining before her final term ends, NASW stands ready to work with Sen. Mikulski in her efforts to enact legislation that benefits American families and communities,” the statement says.

It points out that during Mikulski’s career, she has used her social work skills and values to champion issues that promote the well-being of society — especially those most in need.

Mikulski began her career as a Baltimore social worker and is a longtime NASW member.

She has been a sponsor of the Dorothy I. Height and Whitney M. Young Jr. Social Work Reinvestment Act, which seeks to secure federal and state investments in professional social work to enhance societal well-being.

At press time, Mikulski was set to join U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., who is chairwoman of the Congressional Social Work Caucus, in reintroducing the SWRA on Social Work Day on the Hill on March 17.

Mikulski is also a member of the Congressional Social Work Caucus and was a 2013 recipient of the NASW Foundation International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award, which is awarded to individuals, groups or organizations that have advanced the image of the social work profession.