The University of Connecticut School of Social Work recognized former NASW president and current International Federation of Social Workers President Gary Bailey with a Doctor of Humane Letters degree at the school’s Recognition Ceremony in May.

Bailey, a professor at Simmons College, is an internationally recognized leader, scholar and educator in social work, diversity, human rights and related fields. He has spoken at the Connecticut School of Social Work on various topics over the past several years, and he delivered the keynote address at the school’s Recognition Ceremony on May 11.

The award recognizes Bailey’s contributions to social work, social development, diversity, social justice and human rights.

Samira K. Beckwith, president and CEO of Hope HealthCare Services, has been elected vice chairwoman of the board of directors for the National Coalition of Cancer Survivorship, which advocates for quality cancer care for all people touched by cancer and provides tools that empower people to advocate for themselves.

Founded by and for cancer survivors, NCCS works to effect policy change at the national level, including regulation, funding and delivery of quality cancer care.

Beckwith has twice survived cancer; she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 24 and later, breast cancer. Beckwith’s experiences helped shape her career mission to ensure access to quality, compassionate health care services for all.

“Quality of life is the core focus of everything we offer at Hope HealthCare Services, and the work of NCCS supports our mission,” Beckwith said in a statement. “NCCS advocates at the national level to ensure quality care, and access to care, for everyone affected by cancer. They also provide resources that offer hope to those living with this disease and practical information to help people live each day as fully as possible. I’m pleased to serve as vice chair and help share our experiences from Hope on the national stage.”

Dan Powers, a veteran Dallas-area social worker, has been reappointed to the governing board of the Office of Violent Sex Offender Management, according to an article published at Dallasnews.com. The office oversees the state’s sex offender civil commitment program.

Powers was reappointed by Gov. Rick Perry to serve on the board through Feb. 1, 2015, the article states. Powers is the board’s presiding officer and will continue in that capacity.

Dallasnews.com noted that Powers is a licensed sex offender treatment provider who serves as senior vice president of clinical services at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County.