Three alumni honored with SSW Distinguished Alumni Awards
November 3, 2015
Three School of Social Work alumni were presented Distinguished Alumni Awards at the SSW All Class Reunion Lunch on Friday, October 9, 2015.
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes School of Social Work alumni whose achievements exemplify the values of the School of Social Work and who have made an exceptional impact on the profession, the community and/or Social Work education.
Learn more about the Distinguished Alumni Award »
2015 Recipients:
Dr. Rodolfo Arévalo (MSW'72)
Dr. Rodolfo Arévalo was honored for his 40+ year career in higher education administration and leadership. He served as President of Eastern Washington University from 2006-2014. In 2014, the Washington State Senate bestowed upon Dr. Arevalo the distinguished honor of passing Senate Resolution 8684, recognizing and congratulating him for his steadfast guidance, dedication to student achievement, commitment to diversity, guiding Eastern Washington University to record enrollments, and significantly increasing the University’s profile as the institution of choice for underrepresented and first generation students.
James Batsakis (MSW'79)
James “Jim” Batsakis was commended for his career as a medical social worker at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, MI. Throughout his career, he provided social work and case management services, assisted with the design and implementation of the social work program for the hospital’s Emergency Department, facilitated the Grand Traverse Bay Area Stroke Club and the Diabetes Support Group, served on the Bioethics Committee, and worked as a field supervisor for many social work students. He was nominated for exemplifying the social work profession and values in all he does.
Dr. Marcella Wilson (MSW'80)
Dr. Wilson was selected as a recipient for her extensive experience in healthcare and social work services and dedication to fighting generational poverty and improving health and economic self-sufficiency. She has served as President and CEO for Matrix Human Services since 2006, where she is responsible for overall operations for 18 distinct programs at 28 locations, including the largest Head Start program in Detroit, low income housing, prisoner re-entry, senior, youth and after school programs, prevention programs, and community center management.