Social Work Chapter Awards
2025 Chapter Award Recipients
Congratulations to our outstanding 2025 Social Work Chapter Award recipients!
We are thrilled to recognize outstanding individuals who have made a profound impact on the field of social work. These awards highlight social workers in all areas of practice -educators, policymakers, and changemakers who go above and beyond to uplift communities, advocate for justice, and inspire future generations. Each of these individuals exemplifies the true spirit of our profession—transforming lives, empowering communities, and advocating tirelessly for social justice. To our award recipients - We celebrate your achievements and thank you for your continued inspiration and leadership!
Honorees are nominated by peers and members of the social work community across Minnesota.
Social Worker of the Year
Andrew (Ed) Morales, MPP, MSW, LICSW
Ed Morales is a transformative educator at the University of Minnesota, challenging students to think critically and engage deeply with social work. His passion, authenticity, and commitment to social justice create a learning environment that shapes future social workers.
Social Worker of the Year
Courtney Schroeder, MSW, LGSW
Courtney Schroeder is a dedicated social worker and leader at HealthPartners Infectious Diseases Clinic. She advocates for equitable healthcare, mentors fellow social workers, and fosters an inclusive, patient-centered approach, making a lasting impact on her clients and the profession.
Social Worker of the Year
Miriam Itzkowitz, MSW, LICSW
Miriam Itzkowitz empowers social workers with confidence and an equity-focused lens. As Director of Trauma-Informed Care at the Institute to Transform Child Protection, she develops future social workers while advancing change in child welfare.
Paul & Sheila Wellstone Award for Social Justice
Dr. Nomi Ostrander, PhD, MSW, MPH, LICSW
Dr. Nomi Ostrander is a professor, clinician, and advocate advancing justice for transgender and gender expansive young people. Through community engagement, inclusive education, and research, they embody the social work drive for change—reflecting the core values of social work.
Social Work Supervisor of the Year
Cara McGlynn, MSW, LICSW
Cara McGlynn is a dedicated supervisor at School District 916, advocating for social workers, students, and ongoing learning. She creates a supportive space for growth, keeps supervisees informed, and empowers them to navigate complex cases with confidence.
Social Work Student of the Year
Jack Warren, Bemidji State University
Jack is a dedicated social work student who fosters connection, builds community, supports peers, uplifts Indigenous students, and inspires learning. His leadership, kindness, and generosity—like cooking meals for classmates—make a lasting impact.
Social Work Student of the Year
Marlena Hanson, Bemidji State University
Marlena Hanson is a dedicated BSW student, advocate, and leader. She serves on 14 advisory councils, advises peers, and advances antiracism and equity in systems and curriculum. Her commitment to social justice and community empowerment makes her a force for change.
Tony Bibus Social Work Faculty of the Year
Dr. Kao Nou Moua, PhD, MSW, LGSW
Dr. Kao Nou Moua is a dedicated educator, mentor, and advocate. She engages students in research, advocates for provisional licensure pathways, and creates a supportive learning environment. Her leadership and commitment to student success make her an outstanding force in social work education.
Policymaker of the Year
Senator Zaynab Mohamed
Senator Zaynab Mohamed led the successful push for licensing reform, removing biased barriers to licensure. She continues to advocate for social workers by addressing temporary licensing needs and sponsoring Title Protection legislation, making her a key ally in strengthening the profession in Minnesota.