On November 22, 2025, the Latino Social Work Coalition and Scholarship Fund hosted its 25th Annual Leadership Awards Gala at the Pelham Bay and Split Rock Golf Course. The milestone event celebrated 25 years of impact through scholarship, leadership development, and advocacy, while raising funds to support the Coalition’s ongoing mission. Former Dean Carmen Ortiz Hendricks was one of the founders and leaders of the Latino Social Work Coalition and Scholarship Fund, further underscoring the longstanding connection between Wurzweiler and the Coalition.
The evening was especially meaningful for the Wurzweiler School of Social Work community, as students and faculty were recognized for their service, and commitment to social work.
During the gala, Wurzweiler PhD candidates Claudia Mendez and Frederick Marte, LMSW were named Latino Social Work Coalition Scholarship Awardees. Both students’ achievements reflect their dedication to academic excellence.
The Community Impact Award was presented to Wurzweiler practicum instructor Lissi Garcia, LMSW. She was nominated by Dr. Gary Stein, Wurzweiler”s Interprofessional Aging and Palliative Care Certificate Program Director, and Director of Continuing Education. Lissi was recognized for her contributions to community service and social work practice.
The gala was attended by a distinguished group of Wurzweiler School of Social Work faculty and leadership, reflecting the school’s ongoing support to the Latino Social Work Coalition. Attendees included:
• Dr. Randy Magen, Dorothy & David Schachne Dean
• Dr. Jessica Kahn, Associate Dean, MSW Program Director
• Dr. Gary Stein, Interprofessional Aging and Palliative Care Certificate Program Director, Director of Continuing Education, and Professor
• Dr. Kimberly Moore, Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of Care Café
• Dr. Carolina Herrera, Assistant Professor
• Dr. Michael Serrano, CASAC Program Director & Clinical Assistant Professor
WSSW Students
• Mr. Frederick Marte, MSW
• Mr. Cristino Chavez, MSW
• Ms. Alison Rodriguez
• Ms. Lissi Garcia, MSW
• Mr. Julio Garcia
The Wurzweiler School of Social Work is proud to celebrate this milestone alongside the Coalition and to support its continued efforts to foster the next generation of social work leaders.
For more information about the Latino Social Work Coalition and its mission, please visit their website.
