Wednesday, December 23, 2009

December 23, 2009

www.fordham.edu/gss


Announcements

Here’s what’s happening, A to Z. Details on all announcements are located on the ground-floor and main-level bulletin boards.

My.Fordham Emergency contact information notice- Beginning Wednesday, January 6, 2010 , student users of my.fordham.edu will be required to enter or confirm emergency contact information on a pop-up screen before continuing with their work in the portal. The most important components of this contact information are cell phone numbers to enable University officials to reach students and/or their contacts immediately with time-sensitive information during an emergency. Please contact the University Help Desk at (718) 817-3999 (x3999) if you have questions about filling out the form. Thank you in advance, for helping to enhance the safety and security of the University

Advanced year field planning meeting for students entering their second year of field placement will take place on January 27,2009 in the Common Ground Cafe.
There will be two sessions, same information will be covered at both sessions. The first session is from 12:30-2:30 and the second session is from 3:00-5:00pm.
January 27th is a foundation year integrative seminar day. If you attend the morning seminar please plan on attending the 12:30 session and if you attend the evening seminar please plan on attending the 3:00 session. For the first hour of the meeting faculty will present on the advanced year curriculum including concentrations and specializations. The second hour of the meeting will focus on field placement procedures.

GSS Westchester Benefits Fair for Policy Students- Time: Monday, January 11, 2010, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Location: Fordham Westchester Campus. Mandatory for Social Policy Spring ’10 Students. Counts for 4 hours of Guided Instruction. Come join us for the Graduate School of Social Service Health/Mental Health Benefits Fair. The Fair will consist of agency resource tables providing information on benefits for our clients, keynote speaker Dr. Cynthia Poindexter and workshops focusing on entitlements and benefits for specific populations. For detailed information, please click on the following image:



*Steps to Purchase Campus Course Paks for Your Spring 2010 Courses- Please click onto the following image for detailed instructions:




"4" Fordham Big Events in Celebration of the Big Read- In honor on the Big Read, an initative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Fordham University Westchester Campus is hosting 4 free events that capture the spirit of the movement: Writing Our Lives: A Creative Writing Workshop for Veterans, Book discussion on The Things They Carries by Tim O'Brien, Veterans Art Exhibit, and Artists Reception celebrating the Veterans Art Exhibit. To register for the "Writing Our Lives" workshops, e-mail info@writerscenter.org or call (914) 332-5953. To register for all other events, e-mail eventswc@fordham.edu or call (914) 367-3202. For detailed information, please click on the following image:



*Fordham Westchester Online Book Order Instructions- To order your books online through Fordham Universities' website, please click on the following image:




*GSS Commencement Date Reminder- GSS Graduation will be in the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m.

*Field Planning Meeting for Advanced Year Placement (Fall 2010)-Time: Wednesday, January 27th, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for morning integrated seminar/3-5 p.m. for evening integrated seminar. Location: Cafe on lower level. This meeting will include faculty presentations.

*Clinical Elective for Advanced Standing Students- SWGS 6436 Trauma Treatment for Children and Adolescents: Common Concepts, Components and Skills. This course will introduce students to the common concepts underlying evidence-based treatment for traumatized children and adolescents, using a case analysis format. Trauma is broadly defined, and includes children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events including, but not limited to natural disasters, war, abuse and neglect, medical trauma and witnessing interpersonal crime (e.g. domestic violence) and other traumatic events. The course will highlight the role of development, culture and empirical evidence in trauma-specific interventions with children, adolescents and their families. It will address the level of functioning of primary caregiving environments and assess the capacity of the community to facilitate restorative processes. This Course meets January 4, 6, 8, 11, and 13 from 9:15am to 4:00pm SWGS-6436-00A CRN# 14102 Dr. Virginia Strand.

*Macro Practice Electives-The following Spring 2009 electives are being offered for the Leadership & Macro Practice Concentration: Tuesday-1:40-3:30 p.m.- SWGS-6616 00A Program & Proposal Development-Dr. Heyman Saturday-10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m.- SWGS-6615 00A Supervision & Staff Development-Prof. Herche *NOTE: These electives are available to Foundation Year students as long as they have completed HBSE I and II. Don't forget about our January intersession elective for the Leadership and Macro Practice Concentration: SWGS 6040- Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter.

*GRADUATION INFORMATION-The Commencement Ceremony for February, May and August 2010 graduates will be on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m. at the WaMu Theater in Madison Square Garden. May and August 2010 graduates need to file a Candidate for Degree Card by January 29, 2010. You are an August graduate if you are taking your last course in Summer Session and/or in a 14 hour/week field placement. August graduates are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony in May, but will receive a diploma dated August 9th - it will be mailed to you or you can pick it up in mid-September. February 1st graduates should already have completed a Candidate for Degree card. If you did not, do so immediately. Cards are available in Room 726 at Lincoln Center and Room 102 in Westchester. You will receive more information about graduation through Integrative Seminars and meetings in the Spring semester. If you are a ‘10 graduate and not in seminar this year, please read the monthly calendars and read the signs at each campus. Graduates will receive six (6) tickets for guests. There will be graduation parties: Lincoln Center’s will be Friday, May 21st from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. in Pope Auditorium. The Student Congress at Westchester will be planning for the Westchester celebration. More information to come.

*LMSW/LSW REVIEW-There will be free review sessions for the Licensed Master’s Social Worker (New York State) and the Licensed Social Worker (New Jersey) exams offered at Lincoln Center and in Westchester in early June. Dates will be announced soon. In New York State you need to have completed your degree requirements before you can take the Master’s level exam. In New Jersey you can take the Master’s level exam during your last semester. Applications for the NY State exam are available on the state’s website – www.op.nysed.gov/sw. NJ residents can call (973) 504-6495 for an application. Connecticut has one level of licensing - the “Clinical/ Advanced” level test and 3,000 hours of Post-master’s experience is needed. If you are interested in licensing in other states, go to the Association of Social Work Board’s website at http://www.aswb.org/.

*COURSE ON THE IDENTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND MALTREATMENT-It is a requirement that proof of completion of a two hour course on child abuse identification and reporting be provided when applying for the LMSW in New York State. This will be offered to students for a $25 charge several times during the spring semester at both the Lincoln Center and Westchester campuses – check the monthly calendars and bulletin boards for dates. Other approved providers in the state can be found on the state’s website www.op.nysed.gov/caproviders.htm. If you have previously taken such a course you do not have to reenroll, but you will need the certificate of completion at the time you apply for the license.

*FIELD INSTRUCTION-Students who will be entering their advanced/second/final field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their field work planning by attending a meeting at Lincoln Center on Wednesday, January 27th at either 11:30 – 1:30 or 6:45 – 8:15 in the 12th floor Lounge. At Westchester it will be Wednesday, January 27th at either 12:30 – 2:30 or 3:00 – 5:00 in the Common Ground Cafe. This includes Advanced Standing Students who began part-time this year and EESSP students who will do their one internship in ’10 – ‘11. Students who will be entering their first/foundation field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their planning through meetings a bit later in the semester. At Lincoln Center the options will be Saturday, February 27th from 12:40 – 1:30, Wednesday, March 3rd from 5:30 – 7:00, and Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:30, all in McMahon Hall Room 109. At Westchester the meeting options are Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:40 and Saturday, March 6th from 12:40 – 1:40, location to be announced.

*BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS FAIR–On Monday, January, 11th from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. there will be a Benefits and Entitlements Fair at both Lincoln Center (12th Floor Lounge) and Westchester (Rooms 228 & 230). All foundation year students should plan on attending this event. It is part of the guided instruction requirement for Social Welfare Policy and Services (SWGS6006). The theme is Human Rights, Dr. Cynthia Poindexter will be the keynote speaker, and several faculty will be respondents. Students can attend the event at either Lincoln Center or Westchester as the speakers will be teleconferenced, followed by breakout sessions at each campus on benefits and entitlements that affect our clients. Advanced year students are welcome to attend.

*GSS WEBSITE-The school’s website has information on it that can be very helpful to you. The Student Handbook, calendars, and LMSW information are some of what you will find. Log on to www.fordham.edu/gss and click on Student Resources. The Continuing Education information may be of interest too, so click on that link as well.

*FINANCIAL AID-Applications for student loans and Tuition Remission/Assistance for the upcoming academic year will be available at each campus in early February.

*CHRISTMAS RECESS-The University will be closed Thursday, 12/24/09 through Sunday, 1/3/10. We will reopen Monday, 1/4/10. Field placement resumes on that date.

*NEW ELECTVES-Below are course descriptions for new elective offerings. These are both three credit courses. For descriptions of any GSS course offering, click on View Catalogue Entry link in Banner.

SWGS 6036 Social Work With Active Duty Soldiers, Veterans and their Families- This course, open to all advanced year social work students, explores the role of social work within the military in meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans and their families. The course begins with an exploration of social work practice within the military from an historical perspective. The changing demographic makeup of the military and the implications for social work practice are also a part of this exploration. Issues related to the development of cultural competence and cultural sensitivity when working with the military are also explored. The course then focuses on developing an evidence-based understanding of the current social service, mental health, and health needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families and the intervention methods being used to respond to these needs. While the needs of soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are emphasized, the similar and different needs of veterans from previous conflicts are also considered. The challenges being faced by social workers in meeting the needs of military women, single parents, gay and lesbian soldiers and immigrant soldiers and their family members are also explored. Students analyze and critique current methods of intervention at all levels of practice and consider ways that the social work profession could further contribute to meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families.

SWGS 6038 Agency and Community-Based Assessment and Evaluation Rationale: As professionals who intervene on behalf of vulnerable populations, social workers have an ethical obligation to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions with the individuals, families, organizations, and communities they serve. Contemporary social work practice requires that administrators and practitioners are accountable to multiple stakeholders, including policy makers, funders, agency executives, and clients. Social workers must be prepared to respond to stakeholders using research and quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation measures. Purpose: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for contemporary social work practice that demands that social workers are proficient in evaluating agency and community-based programs. Students who take this course will learn about a variety of evaluation methods, including their purpose, effectiveness, and efficiency. The range of philosophies, methods, and skills commonly used for evaluating human service programs and social work practice interventions will be covered. Special attention is placed on evaluating the extent to which social programs address diversity and empowerment across diverse populations and settings.

*Important Notice on Evidence Based Practice Spring Semester Elective-Many Tuesday Advanced Year students have asked about the Evidence Based Practice elective on Tuesday at 10:50 a.m. There has been a lot of confusion about content of the course. We have been assured by Fordham administration that this course will have a lot of content on service provision to children. For anyone interested in social work with children, this would be an appropriate course. Info: Tuesday, 10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m. Professor: Dr. Dana Marlowe. Registration begins November 30th. Thank you.

*Spring 2010 Class Schedules- Westchester course offerings for the Spring 2010 semester can be viewed on Fordham's GSS page under the Student Resources/Class Schedules menu option. The direct link is located under the GSS Westchester Links section of the blog.

*Ethical Eye- This November, a newsletter discussing ethics in social work practice -- the "ETHICAL EYE" -- will be published. Our first edition will include thoughts from faculty about ethics in social work practice. Subsequent issues, however, will involve YOU! We have established an anonymous web-based submission form for you to submit ethical dilemmas encountered in your practice for future publication and discussion.

Here's how it works:

1.) You experience a situation in your internship that you think involves ethical decision-making -- a client, for example, asks you to "keep a secret" but you are part of a treatment team; or your research project involves 5 year-old children and you wonder how you can ask for their consent to participate.

2.) You go to the web by clicking on Click Here to take survey and fill out the easy to follow submission guide.

3.) Your anonymous submission is read by a committee made up of an administrator, faculty from field, the Ethical Eye editor, and representatives from your student congress.

4.) The committee will then make a selection of scenarios from your submission to publish for our Fordham community. The publication will include responses from selected faculty and students, creating a community dialogue.

SHARPEN YOUR FOCUS-BE A PART OF THE "ETHICAL EYE"

*Attention Left-handed GSS Students: Receive a desktop palette for right-handed desks today! The following attachment, meant for those who experience awkwardness taking notes on right-handers' deskstops, may be obtained in room 147. Contact: Grant Grastorf, (914) 367-3202 or via e-mail at grastorf@fordham.edu.

*January Intersession Elective: Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter. If interested, please sign up on 1st floor GSS bulletin board.

*Student Congress – Congress is composed of 1 to 3 students from each integrative seminar. Please consider volunteering.

*Writing services – Writing consultant is Jacqueline McKnight (jmckcsw@aol.com). Writing handbooks ($10) and a complete list of services are available in 106A.


This Week at GSS

12-24-09 thru 1-3-10: Campus closed. Have a happy, healthy holiday & new year!

Important Reminders/Deadlines

*GSS Registration for Spring 2010-NOTE: Online registration starts November 30, 2009 for continuing students. In-person dates (mandatory for 1st time registering students) are Monday, 12/7, from 2-4 p.m., Tuesday, 12/15, from 2-4 p.m., & Thursday, 1/7, from 2-4 p.m.

*Parking permits – Secure your parking permit registration at the security desk. Upon completion, submit to security office, room 143, with car registration and student ID. Fee is $100 per year.

*Student ID cards are delivered to Henry Davis, room 106A, if you mailed your photo to Fordham. Otherwise, visit room 13G on the ground level to secure your card.

Community Events

*Win A Trip with NY Times Columnist Nicholas Kristof to a Developing Country! - Mr. Kristof holds a competition to take one college/university student with him on a reporting trip each year. Past trips were to Guinea, Cameroon and the Central African Republic; Ruwanda, Congo and Burundi; and West Africa. For information on how to apply, click on the following link: http://kristof.blogs.nytimes.com/.

*Fordham Universities' Holistic Retreat- Sponsored by Campus Ministry. Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010-Lincoln Center Campus. Friday, January 8, 2010-Westchester Campus. Time: 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Place: Campus Ministry Offices (RM. 217-Lincoln Center, RM. 133-Westchester Campus). Cost is $10. For additional info or to register: Joan Cavanagh (For L.C.), (212) 636-6268 / jcavanagh@fordham.edu, Polly Kaplan (For L.C.), (212) 636-7352 / pokaplan@fordham.edu, Carol Gibney (For Westchester) (914) 332-8248 / cgibney@fordham.edu.

*National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Westchester, Inc. (NCADD)-For information on the up-coming CASAC Training Program and/or Family Information Series, please call (914) 949-8500 or check out their website at http://www.ncaddwestchester.org/.

*Psychotherapy Treatment- Available through Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy. Referrals for treatment on a sliding scale. No insurance necessary. -Prompt referrals, very reasonable sliding scale fees. -Treatment provided by highly trained & experienced psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists. -Daytime & evening hours available, private offices in Westchester, Rockland, Fairfield Counties -Strict confidentiality, no insurance needed or utilized. -Long-term intensive treatment available, For application or more information: Call Nancy Bobker: (914) 967-1300 or visit their website: http://www.wcspp.orf/ (click treatment tab). WCSPP is a non-profit educational institution chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York.

*Zen Interfaith Sitting Meditation- Every Monday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Blessed Miguel Pro, S.J., Chapel located at Fordham Westchester. Free and open to all; No registration needed. For more information visit http://www.kennedyzen.org/ or contact Carol Gibney at (914) 367-3420.


Student to Student

Do you have an announcement for other students; something to buy, sell, exchange; a group or activity you want to organize? Please e-mail your announcement to Henry Davis (hdavis8@fordham.edu) for posting.


Career Services/Licensing

Benay Lindenauer, Director of Career Services – lindenauer@fordham.edu, 212-636-7639.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

December 19, 2009




FORDHAM WESTCHESTER CAMPUS CLOSED AFTER 1 P.M. DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER. THANK YOU AND HAVE A HAPPY HOLIDAY & NEW YEAR!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

December 15, 2009

www.fordham.edu/gss

Announcements

Here’s what’s happening, A to Z. Details on all announcements are located on the ground-floor and main-level bulletin boards.

GSS Westchester Benefits Fair for Policy Students- Time: Monday, January 11, 2010, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Location: Fordham Westchester Campus. Mandatory for Social Policy Spring ’10 Students. Counts for 4 hours of Guided Instruction. Come join us for the Graduate School of Social Service Health/Mental Health Benefits Fair. The Fair will consist of agency resource tables providing information on benefits for our clients, keynote speaker Dr. Cynthia Poindexter and workshops focusing on entitlements and benefits for specific populations. For detailed information, please click on the following image:



*Steps to Purchase Campus Course Paks for Your Spring 2010 Courses- Please click onto the following image for detailed instructions:


"4" Fordham Big Events in Celebration of the Big Read- In honor on the Big Read, an initative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Fordham University Westchester Campus is hosting 4 free events that capture the spirit of the movement: Writing Our Lives: A Creative Writing Workshop for Veterans, Book discussion on The Things They Carries by Tim O'Brien, Veterans Art Exhibit, and Artists Reception celebrating the Veterans Art Exhibit. To register for the "Writing Our Lives" workshops, e-mail info@writerscenter.org or call (914) 332-5953. To register for all other events, e-mail eventswc@fordham.edu or call (914) 367-3202. For detailed information, please click on the following image:



*Fordham Westchester Online Book Order Instructions- To order your books online through Fordham Universities' website, please click on the following image:




*GSS Commencement Date Reminder- GSS Graduation will be in the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m.

*Westchester Bee-Line Commuting Survey- Fordham Westchester has been asked to assist the Westchester County Department of Transportation in an important survey of employee commuting patterns in and around the Westchester Avenue corridor. This survey is designed to assess current transportation patterns and mode choices (drive alone, car-pool, bus, etc.) of employees at companies currently served by the Westchester Bee-Line shuttle bus services from the White Plains and Tarrytown rail stations. Survey results will help Westchester County plan for appropriate transportation services in the region, specifically in conjunction with Metro-North rail services. Whatever your current commuting mode choice, your input is greatly appreciated. Please complete this survey by Friday, December 18th. It will take only a few minutes of your time. All responses are completely anonymous. The on-line survey link is: http://www.cjisurveys.com/se.ashx?s=70B0B6CA77291656&n=006

*Field Planning Meeting for Advanced Year Placement (Fall 2010)-Time: Wednesday, January 27th, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for morning integrated seminar/3-5 p.m. for evening integrated seminar. Location: Cafe on lower level. This meeting will include faculty presentations.

*Clinical Elective for Advanced Standing Students- SWGS 6436 Trauma Treatment for Children and Adolescents: Common Concepts, Components and Skills. This course will introduce students to the common concepts underlying evidence-based treatment for traumatized children and adolescents, using a case analysis format. Trauma is broadly defined, and includes children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events including, but not limited to natural disasters, war, abuse and neglect, medical trauma and witnessing interpersonal crime (e.g. domestic violence) and other traumatic events. The course will highlight the role of development, culture and empirical evidence in trauma-specific interventions with children, adolescents and their families. It will address the level of functioning of primary caregiving environments and assess the capacity of the community to facilitate restorative processes. This Course meets January 4, 6, 8, 11, and 13 from 9:15am to 4:00pm SWGS-6436-00A CRN# 14102 Dr. Virginia Strand.

*Macro Practice Electives-The following Spring 2009 electives are being offered for the Leadership & Macro Practice Concentration: Tuesday-1:40-3:30 p.m.- SWGS-6616 00A Program & Proposal Development-Dr. Heyman Saturday-10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m.- SWGS-6615 00A Supervision & Staff Development-Prof. Herche *NOTE: These electives are available to Foundation Year students as long as they have completed HBSE I and II. Don't forget about our January intersession elective for the Leadership and Macro Practice Concentration: SWGS 6040- Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter.

*GRADUATION INFORMATION-The Commencement Ceremony for February, May and August 2010 graduates will be on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m. at the WaMu Theater in Madison Square Garden. May and August 2010 graduates need to file a Candidate for Degree Card by January 29, 2010. You are an August graduate if you are taking your last course in Summer Session and/or in a 14 hour/week field placement. August graduates are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony in May, but will receive a diploma dated August 9th - it will be mailed to you or you can pick it up in mid-September. February 1st graduates should already have completed a Candidate for Degree card. If you did not, do so immediately. Cards are available in Room 726 at Lincoln Center and Room 102 in Westchester. You will receive more information about graduation through Integrative Seminars and meetings in the Spring semester. If you are a ‘10 graduate and not in seminar this year, please read the monthly calendars and read the signs at each campus. Graduates will receive six (6) tickets for guests. There will be graduation parties: Lincoln Center’s will be Friday, May 21st from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. in Pope Auditorium. The Student Congress at Westchester will be planning for the Westchester celebration. More information to come.

*LMSW/LSW REVIEW-There will be free review sessions for the Licensed Master’s Social Worker (New York State) and the Licensed Social Worker (New Jersey) exams offered at Lincoln Center and in Westchester in early June. Dates will be announced soon. In New York State you need to have completed your degree requirements before you can take the Master’s level exam. In New Jersey you can take the Master’s level exam during your last semester. Applications for the NY State exam are available on the state’s website – www.op.nysed.gov/sw. NJ residents can call (973) 504-6495 for an application. Connecticut has one level of licensing - the “Clinical/ Advanced” level test and 3,000 hours of Post-master’s experience is needed. If you are interested in licensing in other states, go to the Association of Social Work Board’s website at http://www.aswb.org/.

*COURSE ON THE IDENTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND MALTREATMENT-It is a requirement that proof of completion of a two hour course on child abuse identification and reporting be provided when applying for the LMSW in New York State. This will be offered to students for a $25 charge several times during the spring semester at both the Lincoln Center and Westchester campuses – check the monthly calendars and bulletin boards for dates. Other approved providers in the state can be found on the state’s website www.op.nysed.gov/caproviders.htm. If you have previously taken such a course you do not have to reenroll, but you will need the certificate of completion at the time you apply for the license.

*FIELD INSTRUCTION-Students who will be entering their advanced/second/final field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their field work planning by attending a meeting at Lincoln Center on Wednesday, January 27th at either 11:30 – 1:30 or 6:45 – 8:15 in the 12th floor Lounge. At Westchester it will be Wednesday, January 27th at either 12:30 – 2:30 or 3:00 – 5:00 in the Common Ground Cafe. This includes Advanced Standing Students who began part-time this year and EESSP students who will do their one internship in ’10 – ‘11. Students who will be entering their first/foundation field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their planning through meetings a bit later in the semester. At Lincoln Center the options will be Saturday, February 27th from 12:40 – 1:30, Wednesday, March 3rd from 5:30 – 7:00, and Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:30, all in McMahon Hall Room 109. At Westchester the meeting options are Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:40 and Saturday, March 6th from 12:40 – 1:40, location to be announced.

*BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS FAIR–On Monday, January, 11th from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. there will be a Benefits and Entitlements Fair at both Lincoln Center (12th Floor Lounge) and Westchester (Rooms 228 & 230). All foundation year students should plan on attending this event. It is part of the guided instruction requirement for Social Welfare Policy and Services (SWGS6006). The theme is Human Rights, Dr. Cynthia Poindexter will be the keynote speaker, and several faculty will be respondents. Students can attend the event at either Lincoln Center or Westchester as the speakers will be teleconferenced, followed by breakout sessions at each campus on benefits and entitlements that affect our clients. Advanced year students are welcome to attend.

*GSS WEBSITE-The school’s website has information on it that can be very helpful to you. The Student Handbook, calendars, and LMSW information are some of what you will find. Log on to www.fordham.edu/gss and click on Student Resources. The Continuing Education information may be of interest too, so click on that link as well.

*FINANCIAL AID-Applications for student loans and Tuition Remission/Assistance for the upcoming academic year will be available at each campus in early February.

*CHRISTMAS RECESS-The University will be closed Thursday, 12/24/09 through Sunday, 1/3/10. We will reopen Monday, 1/4/10. Field placement resumes on that date.

*NEW ELECTVES-Below are course descriptions for new elective offerings. These are both three credit courses. For descriptions of any GSS course offering, click on View Catalogue Entry link in Banner.

SWGS 6036 Social Work With Active Duty Soldiers, Veterans and their Families- This course, open to all advanced year social work students, explores the role of social work within the military in meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans and their families. The course begins with an exploration of social work practice within the military from an historical perspective. The changing demographic makeup of the military and the implications for social work practice are also a part of this exploration. Issues related to the development of cultural competence and cultural sensitivity when working with the military are also explored. The course then focuses on developing an evidence-based understanding of the current social service, mental health, and health needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families and the intervention methods being used to respond to these needs. While the needs of soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are emphasized, the similar and different needs of veterans from previous conflicts are also considered. The challenges being faced by social workers in meeting the needs of military women, single parents, gay and lesbian soldiers and immigrant soldiers and their family members are also explored. Students analyze and critique current methods of intervention at all levels of practice and consider ways that the social work profession could further contribute to meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families.

SWGS 6038 Agency and Community-Based Assessment and Evaluation Rationale: As professionals who intervene on behalf of vulnerable populations, social workers have an ethical obligation to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions with the individuals, families, organizations, and communities they serve. Contemporary social work practice requires that administrators and practitioners are accountable to multiple stakeholders, including policy makers, funders, agency executives, and clients. Social workers must be prepared to respond to stakeholders using research and quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation measures. Purpose: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for contemporary social work practice that demands that social workers are proficient in evaluating agency and community-based programs. Students who take this course will learn about a variety of evaluation methods, including their purpose, effectiveness, and efficiency. The range of philosophies, methods, and skills commonly used for evaluating human service programs and social work practice interventions will be covered. Special attention is placed on evaluating the extent to which social programs address diversity and empowerment across diverse populations and settings.

*Important Notice on Evidence Based Practice Spring Semester Elective-Many Tuesday Advanced Year students have asked about the Evidence Based Practice elective on Tuesday at 10:50 a.m. There has been a lot of confusion about content of the course. We have been assured by Fordham administration that this course will have a lot of content on service provision to children. For anyone interested in social work with children, this would be an appropriate course. Info: Tuesday, 10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m. Professor: Dr. Dana Marlowe. Registration begins November 30th. Thank you.

*Spring 2010 Class Schedules- Westchester course offerings for the Spring 2010 semester can be viewed on Fordham's GSS page under the Student Resources/Class Schedules menu option. The direct link is located under the GSS Westchester Links section of the blog.

*Ethical Eye- This November, a newsletter discussing ethics in social work practice -- the "ETHICAL EYE" -- will be published. Our first edition will include thoughts from faculty about ethics in social work practice. Subsequent issues, however, will involve YOU! We have established an anonymous web-based submission form for you to submit ethical dilemmas encountered in your practice for future publication and discussion.

Here's how it works:

1.) You experience a situation in your internship that you think involves ethical decision-making -- a client, for example, asks you to "keep a secret" but you are part of a treatment team; or your research project involves 5 year-old children and you wonder how you can ask for their consent to participate.

2.) You go to the web by clicking on Click Here to take survey and fill out the easy to follow submission guide.

3.) Your anonymous submission is read by a committee made up of an administrator, faculty from field, the Ethical Eye editor, and representatives from your student congress.

4.) The committee will then make a selection of scenarios from your submission to publish for our Fordham community. The publication will include responses from selected faculty and students, creating a community dialogue.

SHARPEN YOUR FOCUS-BE A PART OF THE "ETHICAL EYE"

*Attention Left-handed GSS Students: Receive a desktop palette for right-handed desks today! The following attachment, meant for those who experience awkwardness taking notes on right-handers' deskstops, may be obtained in room 147. Contact: Grant Grastorf, (914) 367-3202 or via e-mail at grastorf@fordham.edu.

*January Intersession Elective: Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter. If interested, please sign up on 1st floor GSS bulletin board.

*Student Congress – Congress is composed of 1 to 3 students from each integrative seminar. Please consider volunteering.

*Writing services – Writing consultant is Jacqueline McKnight (jmckcsw@aol.com). Writing handbooks ($10) and a complete list of services are available in 106A.


This Week at GSS

12-14: GSS Practicum Lab, 6-7:50 p.m., rm. 139

12-15: GSS Registration, 2-4 p.m., RM. 104 & 105.

12-16: Normal operating day

12-17: Normal operating day

12-18: Normal operating day

12-19: Normal operating day


Important Reminders/Deadlines

*GSS Registration for Spring 2010-NOTE: Online registration starts November 30, 2009 for continuing students. In-person dates (mandatory for 1st time registering students) are Monday, 12/7, from 2-4 p.m., Tuesday, 12/15, from 2-4 p.m., & Thursday, 1/7, from 2-4 p.m.

**Candidate-for-degree cards are past due for all students who complete their MSW requirements at the end of fall semester 2009. Please contact Polly Kaplan (pokaplan@fordham.edu) immediately if you are a February 2010 graduate.**

*Parking permits – Secure your parking permit registration at the security desk. Upon completion, submit to security office, room 143, with car registration and student ID. Fee is $100 per year.

*Student ID cards are delivered to Henry Davis, room 106A, if you mailed your photo to Fordham. Otherwise, visit room 13G on the ground level to secure your card.

Community Events

*Win A Trip with NY Times Columnist Nicholas Kristof to a Developing Country! - Mr. Kristof holds a competition to take one college/university student with him on a reporting trip each year. Past trips were to Guinea, Cameroon and the Central African Republic; Ruwanda, Congo and Burundi; and West Africa. For information on how to apply, click on the following link: http://kristof.blogs.nytimes.com/.

*Fordham Universities' Holistic Retreat- Sponsored by Campus Ministry. Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010-Lincoln Center Campus. Friday, January 8, 2010-Westchester Campus. Time: 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Place: Campus Ministry Offices (RM. 217-Lincoln Center, RM. 133-Westchester Campus). Cost is $10. For additional info or to register: Joan Cavanagh (For L.C.), (212) 636-6268 / jcavanagh@fordham.edu, Polly Kaplan (For L.C.), (212) 636-7352 / pokaplan@fordham.edu, Carol Gibney (For Westchester) (914) 332-8248 / cgibney@fordham.edu.

*National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Westchester, Inc. (NCADD)-For information on the up-coming CASAC Training Program and/or Family Information Series, please call (914) 949-8500 or check out their website at http://www.ncaddwestchester.org/.

*Psychotherapy Treatment- Available through Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy. Referrals for treatment on a sliding scale. No insurance necessary. -Prompt referrals, very reasonable sliding scale fees. -Treatment provided by highly trained & experienced psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists. -Daytime & evening hours available, private offices in Westchester, Rockland, Fairfield Counties -Strict confidentiality, no insurance needed or utilized. -Long-term intensive treatment available, For application or more information: Call Nancy Bobker: (914) 967-1300 or visit their website: http://www.wcspp.orf/ (click treatment tab). WCSPP is a non-profit educational institution chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York.

*Zen Interfaith Sitting Meditation- Every Monday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Blessed Miguel Pro, S.J., Chapel located at Fordham Westchester. Free and open to all; No registration needed. For more information visit http://www.kennedyzen.org/ or contact Carol Gibney at (914) 367-3420.

Student to Student

Do you have an announcement for other students; something to buy, sell, exchange; a group or activity you want to organize? Please e-mail your announcement to Henry Davis (hdavis8@fordham.edu) for posting.


Career Services/Licensing

Benay Lindenauer, Director of Career Services – lindenauer@fordham.edu, 212-636-7639.

Friday, December 11, 2009

December 11, 2009

www.fordham.edu/gss


Announcements

Here’s what’s happening, A to Z. Details on all announcements are located on the ground-floor and main-level bulletin boards.

"4" Fordham Big Events in Celebration of the Big Read. - In honor on the Big Read, an initative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Fordham University Westchester Campus is hosting 4 free events that capture the spirit of the movement: Writing Our Lives: A Creative Writing Workshop for Veterans, Book discussion on The Things They Carries by Tim O'Brien, Veterans Art Exhibit, and Artists Reception celebrating the Veterans Art Exhibit. To register for the "Writing Our Lives" workshops, e-mail info@writerscenter.org or call (914) 332-5953. To register for all other events, e-mail eventswc@fordham.edu or call (914) 367-3202. For detailed information, please click on the following image:




*Fordham Westchester Online Book Order Instructions- To order your books online through Fordham Universities' website, please click on the following image:




*GSS Commencement Date Reminder- GSS Graduation will be in the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m.

*Westchester Bee-Line Commuting Survey- Fordham Westchester has been asked to assist the Westchester County Department of Transportation in an important survey of employee commuting patterns in and around the Westchester Avenue corridor. This survey is designed to assess current transportation patterns and mode choices (drive alone, car-pool, bus, etc.) of employees at companies currently served by the Westchester Bee-Line shuttle bus services from the White Plains and Tarrytown rail stations. Survey results will help Westchester County plan for appropriate transportation services in the region, specifically in conjunction with Metro-North rail services. Whatever your current commuting mode choice, your input is greatly appreciated. Please complete this survey by Friday, December 18th. It will take only a few minutes of your time. All responses are completely anonymous. The on-line survey link is: http://www.cjisurveys.com/se.ashx?s=70B0B6CA77291656&n=006

*Field Planning Meeting for Advanced Year Placement (Fall 2010)-Time: Wednesday, January 27th, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for morning integrated seminar/3-5 p.m. for evening integrated seminar. Location: Cafe on lower level. This meeting will include faculty presentations. *The Fordham University Institute for Women and Girls- Dr. Helen Crohn is convening the first meeting of Westchester campus GSS students who want to organize a student group of Fordham's Institute for Women and Girls. The student group will address issues of women and girls globally, such as domestic violence, sex trafficking, health, education and civil rights, among others. For all interested, please come to room 140 on Saturday, December 12, at 12:45 p.m. Everyone invited (men too!) Bring your lunch and your enthusiasm!

*Clinical Elective for Advanced Standing Students- SWGS 6436 Trauma Treatment for Children and Adolescents: Common Concepts, Components and Skills. This course will introduce students to the common concepts underlying evidence-based treatment for traumatized children and adolescents, using a case analysis format. Trauma is broadly defined, and includes children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events including, but not limited to natural disasters, war, abuse and neglect, medical trauma and witnessing interpersonal crime (e.g. domestic violence) and other traumatic events. The course will highlight the role of development, culture and empirical evidence in trauma-specific interventions with children, adolescents and their families. It will address the level of functioning of primary caregiving environments and assess the capacity of the community to facilitate restorative processes. This Course meets January 4, 6, 8, 11, and 13 from 9:15am to 4:00pm SWGS-6436-00A CRN# 14102 Dr. Virginia Strand.

*Macro Practice Electives-The following Spring 2009 electives are being offered for the Leadership & Macro Practice Concentration: Tuesday-1:40-3:30 p.m.- SWGS-6616 00A Program & Proposal Development-Dr. Heyman Saturday-10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m.- SWGS-6615 00A Supervision & Staff Development-Prof. Herche *NOTE: These electives are available to Foundation Year students as long as they have completed HBSE I and II. Don't forget about our January intersession elective for the Leadership and Macro Practice Concentration: SWGS 6040- Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter.

*GRADUATION INFORMATION-The Commencement Ceremony for February, May and August 2010 graduates will be on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m. at the WaMu Theater in Madison Square Garden. May and August 2010 graduates need to file a Candidate for Degree Card by January 29, 2010. You are an August graduate if you are taking your last course in Summer Session and/or in a 14 hour/week field placement. August graduates are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony in May, but will receive a diploma dated August 9th - it will be mailed to you or you can pick it up in mid-September. February 1st graduates should already have completed a Candidate for Degree card. If you did not, do so immediately. Cards are available in Room 726 at Lincoln Center and Room 102 in Westchester. You will receive more information about graduation through Integrative Seminars and meetings in the Spring semester. If you are a ‘10 graduate and not in seminar this year, please read the monthly calendars and read the signs at each campus. Graduates will receive six (6) tickets for guests. There will be graduation parties: Lincoln Center’s will be Friday, May 21st from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. in Pope Auditorium. The Student Congress at Westchester will be planning for the Westchester celebration. More information to come.

*LMSW/LSW REVIEW-There will be free review sessions for the Licensed Master’s Social Worker (New York State) and the Licensed Social Worker (New Jersey) exams offered at Lincoln Center and in Westchester in early June. Dates will be announced soon. In New York State you need to have completed your degree requirements before you can take the Master’s level exam. In New Jersey you can take the Master’s level exam during your last semester. Applications for the NY State exam are available on the state’s website – www.op.nysed.gov/sw. NJ residents can call (973) 504-6495 for an application. Connecticut has one level of licensing - the “Clinical/ Advanced” level test and 3,000 hours of Post-master’s experience is needed. If you are interested in licensing in other states, go to the Association of Social Work Board’s website at http://www.aswb.org/.

*COURSE ON THE IDENTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND MALTREATMENT-It is a requirement that proof of completion of a two hour course on child abuse identification and reporting be provided when applying for the LMSW in New York State. This will be offered to students for a $25 charge several times during the spring semester at both the Lincoln Center and Westchester campuses – check the monthly calendars and bulletin boards for dates. Other approved providers in the state can be found on the state’s website www.op.nysed.gov/caproviders.htm. If you have previously taken such a course you do not have to reenroll, but you will need the certificate of completion at the time you apply for the license.

*FIELD INSTRUCTION-Students who will be entering their advanced/second/final field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their field work planning by attending a meeting at Lincoln Center on Wednesday, January 27th at either 11:30 – 1:30 or 6:45 – 8:15 in the 12th floor Lounge. At Westchester it will be Wednesday, January 27th at either 12:30 – 2:30 or 3:00 – 5:00 in the Common Ground Cafe. This includes Advanced Standing Students who began part-time this year and EESSP students who will do their one internship in ’10 – ‘11. Students who will be entering their first/foundation field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their planning through meetings a bit later in the semester. At Lincoln Center the options will be Saturday, February 27th from 12:40 – 1:30, Wednesday, March 3rd from 5:30 – 7:00, and Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:30, all in McMahon Hall Room 109. At Westchester the meeting options are Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:40 and Saturday, March 6th from 12:40 – 1:40, location to be announced.

*BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS FAIR–On Monday, January, 11th from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. there will be a Benefits and Entitlements Fair at both Lincoln Center (12th Floor Lounge) and Westchester (Rooms 228 & 230). All foundation year students should plan on attending this event. It is part of the guided instruction requirement for Social Welfare Policy and Services (SWGS6006). The theme is Human Rights, Dr. Cynthia Poindexter will be the keynote speaker, and several faculty will be respondents. Students can attend the event at either Lincoln Center or Westchester as the speakers will be teleconferenced, followed by breakout sessions at each campus on benefits and entitlements that affect our clients. Advanced year students are welcome to attend.

*GSS WEBSITE-The school’s website has information on it that can be very helpful to you. The Student Handbook, calendars, and LMSW information are some of what you will find. Log on to www.fordham.edu/gss and click on Student Resources. The Continuing Education information may be of interest too, so click on that link as well.

*FINANCIAL AID-Applications for student loans and Tuition Remission/Assistance for the upcoming academic year will be available at each campus in early February.

*CHRISTMAS RECESS-The University will be closed Thursday, 12/24/09 through Sunday, 1/3/10. We will reopen Monday, 1/4/10. Field placement resumes on that date.

*NEW ELECTVES-Below are course descriptions for new elective offerings. These are both three credit courses. For descriptions of any GSS course offering, click on View Catalogue Entry link in Banner.

SWGS 6036 Social Work With Active Duty Soldiers, Veterans and their Families- This course, open to all advanced year social work students, explores the role of social work within the military in meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans and their families. The course begins with an exploration of social work practice within the military from an historical perspective. The changing demographic makeup of the military and the implications for social work practice are also a part of this exploration. Issues related to the development of cultural competence and cultural sensitivity when working with the military are also explored. The course then focuses on developing an evidence-based understanding of the current social service, mental health, and health needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families and the intervention methods being used to respond to these needs. While the needs of soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are emphasized, the similar and different needs of veterans from previous conflicts are also considered. The challenges being faced by social workers in meeting the needs of military women, single parents, gay and lesbian soldiers and immigrant soldiers and their family members are also explored. Students analyze and critique current methods of intervention at all levels of practice and consider ways that the social work profession could further contribute to meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families.

SWGS 6038 Agency and Community-Based Assessment and Evaluation Rationale: As professionals who intervene on behalf of vulnerable populations, social workers have an ethical obligation to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions with the individuals, families, organizations, and communities they serve. Contemporary social work practice requires that administrators and practitioners are accountable to multiple stakeholders, including policy makers, funders, agency executives, and clients. Social workers must be prepared to respond to stakeholders using research and quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation measures. Purpose: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for contemporary social work practice that demands that social workers are proficient in evaluating agency and community-based programs. Students who take this course will learn about a variety of evaluation methods, including their purpose, effectiveness, and efficiency. The range of philosophies, methods, and skills commonly used for evaluating human service programs and social work practice interventions will be covered. Special attention is placed on evaluating the extent to which social programs address diversity and empowerment across diverse populations and settings.

*Important Notice on Evidence Based Practice Spring Semester Elective-Many Tuesday Advanced Year students have asked about the Evidence Based Practice elective on Tuesday at 10:50 a.m. There has been a lot of confusion about content of the course. We have been assured by Fordham administration that this course will have a lot of content on service provision to children. For anyone interested in social work with children, this would be an appropriate course. Info: Tuesday, 10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m. Professor: Dr. Dana Marlowe. Registration begins November 30th. Thank you.

*Spring 2010 Class Schedules- Westchester course offerings for the Spring 2010 semester can be viewed on Fordham's GSS page under the Student Resources/Class Schedules menu option. The direct link is located under the GSS Westchester Links section of the blog. *Learn @ Lunch: Association of Black Social Workers- Saturday, 12/12. RM. 142.

*Ethical Eye- This November, a newsletter discussing ethics in social work practice -- the "ETHICAL EYE" -- will be published. Our first edition will include thoughts from faculty about ethics in social work practice. Subsequent issues, however, will involve YOU! We have established an anonymous web-based submission form for you to submit ethical dilemmas encountered in your practice for future publication and discussion.

Here's how it works:

1.) You experience a situation in your internship that you think involves ethical decision-making -- a client, for example, asks you to "keep a secret" but you are part of a treatment team; or your research project involves 5 year-old children and you wonder how you can ask for their consent to participate.

2.) You go to the web by clicking on Click Here to take survey and fill out the easy to follow submission guide.

3.) Your anonymous submission is read by a committee made up of an administrator, faculty from field, the Ethical Eye editor, and representatives from your student congress.

4.) The committee will then make a selection of scenarios from your submission to publish for our Fordham community. The publication will include responses from selected faculty and students, creating a community dialogue.

SHARPEN YOUR FOCUS-BE A PART OF THE "ETHICAL EYE"

*Attention Left-handed GSS Students: Receive a desktop palette for right-handed desks today! The following attachment, meant for those who experience awkwardness taking notes on right-handers' deskstops, may be obtained in room 147. Contact: Grant Grastorf, (914) 367-3202 or via e-mail at grastorf@fordham.edu.

*January Intersession Elective: Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter. If interested, please sign up on 1st floor GSS bulletin board.

*Student Congress – Congress is composed of 1 to 3 students from each integrative seminar. Please consider volunteering.

*Writing services – Writing consultant is Jacqueline McKnight (jmckcsw@aol.com). Writing handbooks ($10) and a complete list of services are available in 106A.

This Week at GSS

12-07: GSS Registration, 2-4 p.m., RM. 104 & 105.

12-08: Normal operating day

12-09: Foundation year integrated seminar, 9:30-11:30 a.m./ 5:30-7:30 p.m.

12-10: Normal operating day

12-11: Normal operating day 12-12: Happy Chanukah! Learn @ Lunch: Association of Black Social Workers mtg., 12:40-1:40 p.m., RM. 142


Important Reminders/Deadlines

*GSS Registration for Spring 2010-NOTE: Online registration starts November 30, 2009 for continuing students. In-person dates (mandatory for 1st time registering students) are Monday, 12/7, from 2-4 p.m., Tuesday, 12/15, from 2-4 p.m., & Thursday, 1/7, from 2-4 p.m.

**Candidate-for-degree cards are past due for all students who complete their MSW requirements at the end of fall semester 2009. Please contact Polly Kaplan (pokaplan@fordham.edu) immediately if you are a February 2010 graduate.**

*Parking permits – Secure your parking permit registration at the security desk. Upon completion, submit to security office, room 143, with car registration and student ID. Fee is $100 per year.

*Student ID cards are delivered to Henry Davis, room 106A, if you mailed your photo to Fordham. Otherwise, visit room 13G on the ground level to secure your card.


Community Events

*Fordham Universities' Holistic Retreat- Sponsored by Campus Ministry. Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010-Lincoln Center Campus. Friday, January 8, 2010-Westchester Campus. Time: 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Place: Campus Ministry Offices (RM. 217-Lincoln Center, RM. 133-Westchester Campus). Cost is $10. For additional info or to register: Joan Cavanagh (For L.C.), (212) 636-6268 / jcavanagh@fordham.edu, Polly Kaplan (For L.C.), (212) 636-7352 / pokaplan@fordham.edu, Carol Gibney (For Westchester) (914) 332-8248 / cgibney@fordham.edu.

*National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Westchester, Inc. (NCADD)- For information on the up-coming CASAC Training Program and/or Family Information Series, please call (914) 949-8500 or check out their website at http://www.ncaddwestchester.org/.

*Psychotherapy Treatment- Available through Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy. Referrals for treatment on a sliding scale. No insurance necessary. -Prompt referrals, very reasonable sliding scale fees. -Treatment provided by highly trained & experienced psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists. -Daytime & evening hours available, private offices in Westchester, Rockland, Fairfield Counties -Strict confidentiality, no insurance needed or utilized. -Long-term intensive treatment available, For application or more information: Call Nancy Bobker: (914) 967-1300 or visit their website: http://www.wcspp.orf/ (click treatment tab). WCSPP is a non-profit educational institution chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York.

*Zen Interfaith Sitting Meditation- Every Monday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Blessed Miguel Pro, S.J., Chapel located at Fordham Westchester. Free and open to all; No registration needed. For more information visit http://www.kennedyzen.org/ or contact Carol Gibney at (914) 367-3420.

Student to Student

Do you have an announcement for other students; something to buy, sell, exchange; a group or activity you want to organize? Please e-mail your announcement to Henry Davis (hdavis8@fordham.edu) for posting.


Career Services/Licensing

Benay Lindenauer, Director of Career Services – lindenauer@fordham.edu, 212-636-7639.

Monday, December 7, 2009

December 7, 2009

www.fordham.edu/gss


Announcements

Here’s what’s happening, A to Z. Details on all announcements are located on the ground-floor and main-level bulletin boards.

*GSS Commencement Date- It's official! GSS Graduation will be in the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m.

*Westchester Bee-Line Commuting Survey- Fordham Westchester has been asked to assist the Westchester County Department of Transportation in an important survey of employee commuting patterns in and around the Westchester Avenue corridor. This survey is designed to assess current transportation patterns and mode choices (drive alone, car-pool, bus, etc.) of employees at companies currently served by the Westchester Bee-Line shuttle bus services from the White Plains and Tarrytown rail stations. Survey results will help Westchester County plan for appropriate transportation services in the region, specifically in conjunction with Metro-North rail services. Whatever your current commuting mode choice, your input is greatly appreciated. Please complete this survey by Friday, December 18th. It will take only a few minutes of your time. All responses are completely anonymous. The on-line survey link is: http://www.cjisurveys.com/se.ashx?s=70B0B6CA77291656&n=006

*Field Planning Meeting for Advanced Year Placement (Fall 2010)- Time: Wednesday, January 27th, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for morning integrated seminar/3-5 p.m. for evening integrated seminar. Location: Cafe on lower level. This meeting will include faculty presentations.

*The Fordham University Institute for Women and Girls- Dr. Helen Crohn is convening the first meeting of Westchester campus GSS students who want to organize a student group of Fordham's Institute for Women and Girls. The student group will address issues of women and girls globally, such as domestic violence, sex trafficking, health, education and civil rights, among others. For all interested, please come to room 140 on Saturday, December 12, at 12:45 p.m. Everyone invited (men too!) Bring your lunch and your enthusiasm!

*Clinical Elective for Advanced Standing Students- SWGS 6436 Trauma Treatment for Children and Adolescents: Common Concepts, Components and Skills. This course will introduce students to the common concepts underlying evidence-based treatment for traumatized children and adolescents, using a case analysis format. Trauma is broadly defined, and includes children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events including, but not limited to natural disasters, war, abuse and neglect, medical trauma and witnessing interpersonal crime (e.g. domestic violence) and other traumatic events. The course will highlight the role of development, culture and empirical evidence in trauma-specific interventions with children, adolescents and their families. It will address the level of functioning of primary caregiving environments and assess the capacity of the community to facilitate restorative processes. This Course meets January 4, 6, 8, 11, and 13 from 9:15am to 4:00pm SWGS-6436-00A CRN# 14102 Dr. Virginia Strand.

*Macro Practice Electives-The following Spring 2009 electives are being offered for the Leadership & Macro Practice Concentration: Tuesday-1:40-3:30 p.m.- SWGS-6616 00A Program & Proposal Development-Dr. Heyman Saturday-10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m.- SWGS-6615 00A Supervision & Staff Development-Prof. Herche *NOTE: These electives are available to Foundation Year students as long as they have completed HBSE I and II. Don't forget about our January intersession elective for the Leadership and Macro Practice Concentration: SWGS 6040- Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter.

*GRADUATION INFORMATION-The Commencement Ceremony for February, May and August 2010 graduates will be on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m. at the WaMu Theater in Madison Square Garden. May and August 2010 graduates need to file a Candidate for Degree Card by January 29, 2010. You are an August graduate if you are taking your last course in Summer Session and/or in a 14 hour/week field placement. August graduates are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony in May, but will receive a diploma dated August 9th - it will be mailed to you or you can pick it up in mid-September. February 1st graduates should already have completed a Candidate for Degree card. If you did not, do so immediately. Cards are available in Room 726 at Lincoln Center and Room 102 in Westchester. You will receive more information about graduation through Integrative Seminars and meetings in the Spring semester. If you are a ‘10 graduate and not in seminar this year, please read the monthly calendars and read the signs at each campus. Graduates will receive six (6) tickets for guests. There will be graduation parties: Lincoln Center’s will be Friday, May 21st from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. in Pope Auditorium. The Student Congress at Westchester will be planning for the Westchester celebration. More information to come.

*LMSW/LSW REVIEW-There will be free review sessions for the Licensed Master’s Social Worker (New York State) and the Licensed Social Worker (New Jersey) exams offered at Lincoln Center and in Westchester in early June. Dates will be announced soon. In New York State you need to have completed your degree requirements before you can take the Master’s level exam. In New Jersey you can take the Master’s level exam during your last semester. Applications for the NY State exam are available on the state’s website – www.op.nysed.gov/sw. NJ residents can call (973) 504-6495 for an application. Connecticut has one level of licensing - the “Clinical/ Advanced” level test and 3,000 hours of Post-master’s experience is needed. If you are interested in licensing in other states, go to the Association of Social Work Board’s website at http://www.aswb.org/.

*COURSE ON THE IDENTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND MALTREATMENT-It is a requirement that proof of completion of a two hour course on child abuse identification and reporting be provided when applying for the LMSW in New York State. This will be offered to students for a $25 charge several times during the spring semester at both the Lincoln Center and Westchester campuses – check the monthly calendars and bulletin boards for dates. Other approved providers in the state can be found on the state’s website www.op.nysed.gov/caproviders.htm. If you have previously taken such a course you do not have to reenroll, but you will need the certificate of completion at the time you apply for the license.

*FIELD INSTRUCTION-Students who will be entering their advanced/second/final field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their field work planning by attending a meeting at Lincoln Center on Wednesday, January 27th at either 11:30 – 1:30 or 6:45 – 8:15 in the 12th floor Lounge. At Westchester it will be Wednesday, January 27th at either 12:30 – 2:30 or 3:00 – 5:00 in the Common Ground Cafe. This includes Advanced Standing Students who began part-time this year and EESSP students who will do their one internship in ’10 – ‘11. Students who will be entering their first/foundation field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their planning through meetings a bit later in the semester. At Lincoln Center the options will be Saturday, February 27th from 12:40 – 1:30, Wednesday, March 3rd from 5:30 – 7:00, and Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:30, all in McMahon Hall Room 109. At Westchester the meeting options are Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:40 and Saturday, March 6th from 12:40 – 1:40, location to be announced.

*BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS FAIR–On Monday, January, 11th from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. there will be a Benefits and Entitlements Fair at both Lincoln Center (12th Floor Lounge) and Westchester (Rooms 228 & 230). All foundation year students should plan on attending this event. It is part of the guided instruction requirement for Social Welfare Policy and Services (SWGS6006). The theme is Human Rights, Dr. Cynthia Poindexter will be the keynote speaker, and several faculty will be respondents. Students can attend the event at either Lincoln Center or Westchester as the speakers will be teleconferenced, followed by breakout sessions at each campus on benefits and entitlements that affect our clients. Advanced year students are welcome to attend.

*GSS WEBSITE-The school’s website has information on it that can be very helpful to you. The Student Handbook, calendars, and LMSW information are some of what you will find. Log on to www.fordham.edu/gss and click on Student Resources. The Continuing Education information may be of interest too, so click on that link as well.

*FINANCIAL AID-Applications for student loans and Tuition Remission/Assistance for the upcoming academic year will be available at each campus in early February.

*CHRISTMAS RECESS-The University will be closed Thursday, 12/24/09 through Sunday, 1/3/10. We will reopen Monday, 1/4/10. Field placement resumes on that date.

*NEW ELECTVES-Below are course descriptions for new elective offerings. These are both three credit courses. For descriptions of any GSS course offering, click on View Catalogue Entry link in Banner. SWGS 6036 Social Work With Active Duty Soldiers, Veterans and their Families This course, open to all advanced year social work students, explores the role of social work within the military in meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans and their families. The course begins with an exploration of social work practice within the military from an historical perspective. The changing demographic makeup of the military and the implications for social work practice are also a part of this exploration. Issues related to the development of cultural competence and cultural sensitivity when working with the military are also explored. The course then focuses on developing an evidence-based understanding of the current social service, mental health, and health needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families and the intervention methods being used to respond to these needs. While the needs of soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are emphasized, the similar and different needs of veterans from previous conflicts are also considered. The challenges being faced by social workers in meeting the needs of military women, single parents, gay and lesbian soldiers and immigrant soldiers and their family members are also explored. Students analyze and critique current methods of intervention at all levels of practice and consider ways that the social work profession could further contribute to meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families. SWGS 6038 Agency and Community-Based Assessment and Evaluation Rationale: As professionals who intervene on behalf of vulnerable populations, social workers have an ethical obligation to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions with the individuals, families, organizations, and communities they serve. Contemporary social work practice requires that administrators and practitioners are accountable to multiple stakeholders, including policy makers, funders, agency executives, and clients. Social workers must be prepared to respond to stakeholders using research and quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation measures. Purpose: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for contemporary social work practice that demands that social workers are proficient in evaluating agency and community-based programs. Students who take this course will learn about a variety of evaluation methods, including their purpose, effectiveness, and efficiency. The range of philosophies, methods, and skills commonly used for evaluating human service programs and social work practice interventions will be covered. Special attention is placed on evaluating the extent to which social programs address diversity and empowerment across diverse populations and settings.

*Important Notice on Evidence Based Practice Spring Semester Elective-Many Tuesday Advanced Year students have asked about the Evidence Based Practice elective on Tuesday at 10:50 a.m. There has been a lot of confusion about content of the course. We have been assured by Fordham administration that this course will have a lot of content on service provision to children. For anyone interested in social work with children, this would be an appropriate course. Info: Tuesday, 10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m. Professor: Dr. Dana Marlowe. Registration begins November 30th. Thank you.

*Spring 2010 Class Schedules- Westchester course offerings for the Spring 2010 semester can be viewed on Fordham's GSS page under the Student Resources/Class Schedules menu option. The direct link is located under the GSS Westchester Links section of the blog. *Learn @ Lunch: Association of Black Social Workers- Saturday, 12/12. RM. 142.

*Ethical Eye- This November, a newsletter discussing ethics in social work practice -- the "ETHICAL EYE" -- will be published. Our first edition will include thoughts from faculty about ethics in social work practice. Subsequent issues, however, will involve YOU! We have established an anonymous web-based submission form for you to submit ethical dilemmas encountered in your practice for future publication and discussion.

Here's how it works:

1.) You experience a situation in your internship that you think involves ethical decision-making -- a client, for example, asks you to "keep a secret" but you are part of a treatment team; or your research project involves 5 year-old children and you wonder how you can ask for their consent to participate.

2.) You go to the web by clicking on Click Here to take survey and fill out the easy to follow submission guide.

3.) Your anonymous submission is read by a committee made up of an administrator, faculty from field, the Ethical Eye editor, and representatives from your student congress.

4.) The committee will then make a selection of scenarios from your submission to publish for our Fordham community. The publication will include responses from selected faculty and students, creating a community dialogue.

SHARPEN YOUR FOCUS-BE A PART OF THE "ETHICAL EYE"

*Attention Left-handed GSS Students: Receive a desktop palette for right-handed desks today! The following attachment, meant for those who experience awkwardness taking notes on right-handers' deskstops, may be obtained in room 147. Contact: Grant Grastorf, (914) 367-3202 or via e-mail at grastorf@fordham.edu.

*January Intersession Elective: Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter. If interested, please sign up on 1st floor GSS bulletin board.

*Student Congress – Congress is composed of 1 to 3 students from each integrative seminar. Please consider volunteering.

*Writing services – Writing consultant is Jacqueline McKnight (jmckcsw@aol.com). Writing handbooks ($10) and a complete list of services are available in 106A.


This Week at GSS

12-07: GSS Registration, 2-4 p.m., RM. 104 & 105.

12-08: Normal operating day

12-09: Foundation year integrated seminar, 9:30-11:30 a.m./ 5:30-7:30 p.m.

12-10: Normal operating day

12-11: Normal operating day

12-12: Happy Chanukah!
Learn @ Lunch: Association of Black Social Workers mtg., 12:40-1:40 p.m., RM. 142


Important Reminders/Deadlines

*GSS Registration for Spring 2010-NOTE: Online registration starts November 30, 2009 for continuing students. In-person dates (mandatory for 1st time registering students) are Monday, 12/7, from 2-4 p.m., Tuesday, 12/15, from 2-4 p.m., & Thursday, 1/7, from 2-4 p.m.

**Candidate-for-degree cards are past due for all students who complete their MSW requirements at the end of fall semester 2009. Please contact Polly Kaplan (pokaplan@fordham.edu) immediately if you are a February 2010 graduate.**

*Parking permits – Secure your parking permit registration at the security desk. Upon completion, submit to security office, room 143, with car registration and student ID. Fee is $100 per year.

*Student ID cards are delivered to Henry Davis, room 106A, if you mailed your photo to Fordham. Otherwise, visit room 13G on the ground level to secure your card.


Community Events

*National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Westchester, Inc. (NCADD)-For information on the up-coming CASAC Training Program and/or Family Information Series, please call (914) 949-8500 or check out their website at http://www.ncaddwestchester.org/.

*Social Work and Spirituality, Working with Children: Issues of Illness, Loss, and Trauma- Sponsored by the Silver School of Social Work, NYU. Co-sponsored by WJA Federation of New York. Time: 12/9/09, 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Location: Silver School of Social Service, NYU, 1 Washington Square North, New York, NY 10003. $90 for the day (incl. breakfast & materials). Make checks payable to: NYU Social Work. Send payment to the above address to the attention of Priany Hadiatmodjo (FAX # 212-995-4172).

*Psychotherapy Treatment- Available through Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy. Referrals for treatment on a sliding scale. No insurance necessary. -Prompt referrals, very reasonable sliding scale fees. -Treatment provided by highly trained & experienced psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists. -Daytime & evening hours available, private offices in Westchester, Rockland, Fairfield Counties -Strict confidentiality, no insurance needed or utilized. -Long-term intensive treatment available, For application or more information: Call Nancy Bobker: (914) 967-1300 or visit their website: http://www.wcspp.orf/ (click treatment tab). WCSPP is a non-profit educational institution chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York.

*Zen Interfaith Sitting Meditation- Every Monday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Blessed Miguel Pro, S.J., Chapel located at Fordham Westchester. Free and open to all; No registration needed. For more information visit http://www.kennedyzen.org/ or contact Carol Gibney at (914) 367-3420.

*Undoing Racism Community Organizing Workshop-Follow up meeting on Monday, December 7th, 5:30-7 p.m. @ Fordham University/Westchester Campus in Harrison.


Student to Student

Do you have an announcement for other students; something to buy, sell, exchange; a group or activity you want to organize? Please e-mail your announcement to Henry Davis (hdavis8@fordham.edu) for posting.


Career Services/Licensing

Benay Lindenauer, Director of Career Services – lindenauer@fordham.edu, 212-636-7639.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

December 2, 2009

http://www.fordham.edu/


Announcements

Here’s what’s happening, A to Z. Details on all announcements are located on the ground-floor and main-level bulletin boards.

*Field Planning Meeting for Advanced Year Placement (Fall 2010)- Time: Wednesday, January 27th, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. for morning integrated seminar/3-5 p.m. for evening integrated seminar. Location: Cafe on lower level. This meeting will include faculty presentations.

*The Fordham University Institute for Women and Girls- Dr. Helen Crohn is convening the first meeting of Westchester campus GSS students who want to organize a student group of Fordham's Institute for Women and Girls. The student group will address issues of women and girls globally, such as domestic violence, sex trafficking, health, education and civil rights, among others. For all interested, please come to room 140 on Saturday, December 12, at 12:45 p.m. Everyone invited (men too!) Bring your lunch and your enthusiasm!

*Clinical Elective for Advanced Standing Students- SWGS 6436 Trauma Treatment for Children and Adolescents: Common Concepts, Components and Skills. This course will introduce students to the common concepts underlying evidence-based treatment for traumatized children and adolescents, using a case analysis format. Trauma is broadly defined, and includes children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events including, but not limited to natural disasters, war, abuse and neglect, medical trauma and witnessing interpersonal crime (e.g. domestic violence) and other traumatic events. The course will highlight the role of development, culture and empirical evidence in trauma-specific interventions with children, adolescents and their families. It will address the level of functioning of primary caregiving environments and assess the capacity of the community to facilitate restorative processes. This Course meets January 4, 6, 8, 11, and 13 from 9:15am to 4:00pm SWGS-6436-00A CRN# 14102 Dr. Virginia Strand.

*Macro Practice Electives-The following Spring 2009 electives are being offered for the Leadership & Macro Practice Concentration: Tuesday-1:40-3:30 p.m.- SWGS-6616 00A Program & Proposal Development-Dr. Heyman Saturday-10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m.- SWGS-6615 00A Supervision & Staff Development-Prof. Herche *NOTE: These electives are available to Foundation Year students as long as they have completed HBSE I and II. Don't forget about our January intersession elective for the Leadership and Macro Practice Concentration: SWGS 6040- Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter.

*GRADUATION INFORMATION-The Commencement Ceremony for February, May and August 2010 graduates will be on Sunday, May 23rd at 1:00 p.m. at the WaMu Theater in Madison Square Garden. May and August 2010 graduates need to file a Candidate for Degree Card by January 29, 2010. You are an August graduate if you are taking your last course in Summer Session and/or in a 14 hour/week field placement. August graduates are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony in May, but will receive a diploma dated August 9th - it will be mailed to you or you can pick it up in mid-September. February 1st graduates should already have completed a Candidate for Degree card. If you did not, do so immediately. Cards are available in Room 726 at Lincoln Center and Room 102 in Westchester. You will receive more information about graduation through Integrative Seminars and meetings in the Spring semester. If you are a ‘10 graduate and not in seminar this year, please read the monthly calendars and read the signs at each campus. Graduates will receive six (6) tickets for guests. There will be graduation parties: Lincoln Center’s will be Friday, May 21st from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. in Pope Auditorium. The Student Congress at Westchester will be planning for the Westchester celebration. More information to come.

*LMSW/LSW REVIEW-There will be free review sessions for the Licensed Master’s Social Worker (New York State) and the Licensed Social Worker (New Jersey) exams offered at Lincoln Center and in Westchester in early June. Dates will be announced soon. In New York State you need to have completed your degree requirements before you can take the Master’s level exam. In New Jersey you can take the Master’s level exam during your last semester. Applications for the NY State exam are available on the state’s website – www.op.nysed.gov/sw. NJ residents can call (973) 504-6495 for an application. Connecticut has one level of licensing - the “Clinical/ Advanced” level test and 3,000 hours of Post-master’s experience is needed. If you are interested in licensing in other states, go to the Association of Social Work Board’s website at http://www.aswb.org/.

*COURSE ON THE IDENTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND MALTREATMENT-It is a requirement that proof of completion of a two hour course on child abuse identification and reporting be provided when applying for the LMSW in New York State. This will be offered to students for a $25 charge several times during the spring semester at both the Lincoln Center and Westchester campuses – check the monthly calendars and bulletin boards for dates. Other approved providers in the state can be found on the state’s website www.op.nysed.gov/caproviders.htm. If you have previously taken such a course you do not have to reenroll, but you will need the certificate of completion at the time you apply for the license.

*FIELD INSTRUCTION-Students who will be entering their advanced/second/final field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their field work planning by attending a meeting at Lincoln Center on Wednesday, January 27th at either 11:30 – 1:30 or 6:45 – 8:15 in the 12th floor Lounge. At Westchester it will be Wednesday, January 27th at either 12:30 – 2:30 or 3:00 – 5:00 in the Common Ground Cafe. This includes Advanced Standing Students who began part-time this year and EESSP students who will do their one internship in ’10 – ‘11. Students who will be entering their first/foundation field placement in Fall 2010 will begin their planning through meetings a bit later in the semester. At Lincoln Center the options will be Saturday, February 27th from 12:40 – 1:30, Wednesday, March 3rd from 5:30 – 7:00, and Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:30, all in McMahon Hall Room 109. At Westchester the meeting options are Thursday, March 4th from 12:40 – 1:40 and Saturday, March 6th from 12:40 – 1:40, location to be announced.

*BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS FAIR–On Monday, January, 11th from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. there will be a Benefits and Entitlements Fair at both Lincoln Center (12th Floor Lounge) and Westchester (Rooms 228 & 230). All foundation year students should plan on attending this event. It is part of the guided instruction requirement for Social Welfare Policy and Services (SWGS6006). The theme is Human Rights, Dr. Cynthia Poindexter will be the keynote speaker, and several faculty will be respondents. Students can attend the event at either Lincoln Center or Westchester as the speakers will be teleconferenced, followed by breakout sessions at each campus on benefits and entitlements that affect our clients. Advanced year students are welcome to attend.

*GSS WEBSITE-The school’s website has information on it that can be very helpful to you. The Student Handbook, calendars, and LMSW information are some of what you will find. Log on to www.fordham.edu/gss and click on Student Resources. The Continuing Education information may be of interest too, so click on that link as well.

*FINANCIAL AID-Applications for student loans and Tuition Remission/Assistance for the upcoming academic year will be available at each campus in early February.

*CHRISTMAS RECESS-The University will be closed Thursday, 12/24/09 through Sunday, 1/3/10. We will reopen Monday, 1/4/10. Field placement resumes on that date.

*NEW ELECTVES-Below are course descriptions for new elective offerings. These are both three credit courses. For descriptions of any GSS course offering, click on View Catalogue Entry link in Banner.

SWGS 6036 Social Work With Active Duty Soldiers, Veterans and their Families This course, open to all advanced year social work students, explores the role of social work within the military in meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans and their families. The course begins with an exploration of social work practice within the military from an historical perspective. The changing demographic makeup of the military and the implications for social work practice are also a part of this exploration. Issues related to the development of cultural competence and cultural sensitivity when working with the military are also explored. The course then focuses on developing an evidence-based understanding of the current social service, mental health, and health needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families and the intervention methods being used to respond to these needs. While the needs of soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are emphasized, the similar and different needs of veterans from previous conflicts are also considered. The challenges being faced by social workers in meeting the needs of military women, single parents, gay and lesbian soldiers and immigrant soldiers and their family members are also explored. Students analyze and critique current methods of intervention at all levels of practice and consider ways that the social work profession could further contribute to meeting the needs of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families.

SWGS 6038 Agency and Community-Based Assessment and Evaluation Rationale: As professionals who intervene on behalf of vulnerable populations, social workers have an ethical obligation to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions with the individuals, families, organizations, and communities they serve. Contemporary social work practice requires that administrators and practitioners are accountable to multiple stakeholders, including policy makers, funders, agency executives, and clients. Social workers must be prepared to respond to stakeholders using research and quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation measures.

Purpose: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for contemporary social work practice that demands that social workers are proficient in evaluating agency and community-based programs. Students who take this course will learn about a variety of evaluation methods, including their purpose, effectiveness, and efficiency. The range of philosophies, methods, and skills commonly used for evaluating human service programs and social work practice interventions will be covered. Special attention is placed on evaluating the extent to which social programs address diversity and empowerment across diverse populations and settings.

*Important Notice on Evidence Based Practice Spring Semester Elective-Many Tuesday Advanced Year students have asked about the Evidence Based Practice elective on Tuesday at 10:50 a.m. There has been a lot of confusion about content of the course. We have been assured by Fordham administration that this course will have a lot of content on service provision to children. For anyone interested in social work with children, this would be an appropriate course. Info: Tuesday, 10:50 a.m.-12:40 p.m. Professor: Dr. Dana Marlowe. Registration begins November 30th. Thank you.

*Spring 2010 Class Schedules- Westchester course offerings for the Spring 2010 semester can be viewed on Fordham's GSS page under the Student Resources/Class Schedules menu option. The direct link is located under the GSS Westchester Links section of the blog.

*Learn @ Lunch: Association of Black Social Workers- Saturday, 12/12. RM. 142.

*Ethical Eye- This November, a newsletter discussing ethics in social work practice -- the "ETHICAL EYE" -- will be published. Our first edition will include thoughts from faculty about ethics in social work practice. Subsequent issues, however, will involve YOU! We have established an anonymous web-based submission form for you to submit ethical dilemmas encountered in your practice for future publication and discussion.

Here's how it works:

1.) You experience a situation in your internship that you think involves ethical decision-making -- a client, for example, asks you to "keep a secret" but you are part of a treatment team; or your research project involves 5 year-old children and you wonder how you can ask for their consent to participate.

2.) You go to the web by clicking on Click Here to take survey and fill out the easy to follow submission guide.

3.) Your anonymous submission is read by a committee made up of an administrator, faculty from field, the Ethical Eye editor, and representatives from your student congress.

4.) The committee will then make a selection of scenarios from your submission to publish for our Fordham community. The publication will include responses from selected faculty and students, creating a community dialogue.

SHARPEN YOUR FOCUS-BE A PART OF THE "ETHICAL EYE"

*Attention Left-handed GSS Students: Receive a desktop palette for right-handed desks today! The following attachment, meant for those who experience awkwardness taking notes on right-handers' deskstops, may be obtained in room 147. Contact: Grant Grastorf, (914) 367-3202 or via e-mail at grastorf@fordham.edu.

*January Intersession Elective: Social Work from the Human Rights Perspective- January 4, 6, 8, 12, 15, 12:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Cynthia Poindexter. If interested, please sign up on 1st floor GSS bulletin board.

*Student Congress – Congress is composed of 1 to 3 students from each integrative seminar. Please consider volunteering.

*Writing services – Writing consultant is Jacqueline McKnight (jmckcsw@aol.com). Writing handbooks ($10) and a complete list of services are available in 106A.


This Week at GSS

11-30: Practicum Lab, 6-7:50 p.m., RM. 139. Online course registration commences.

12-01: Normal operating day

12-02: Advanced year integrated seminar, 9:30-11:30 a.m./ 5:30-7:30 p.m.

12-03: Normal operating day

12-04: Normal operating day

12-05: Normal operating day


Important Reminders/Deadlines

*GSS Registration for Spring 2010-NOTE: Online registration starts November 30, 2009 for continuing students. In-person dates (mandatory for 1st time registering students) are Monday, 12/7, from 2-4 p.m., Tuesday, 12/15, from 2-4 p.m., & Thursday, 1/7, from 2-4 p.m.

**Candidate-for-degree cards are past due for all students who complete their MSW requirements at the end of fall semester 2009. Please contact Polly Kaplan (pokaplan@fordham.edu) immediately if you are a February 2010 graduate.**

*Parking permits – Secure your parking permit registration at the security desk. Upon completion, submit to security office, room 143, with car registration and student ID. Fee is $100 per year.

*Student ID cards are delivered to Henry Davis, room 106A, if you mailed your photo to Fordham. Otherwise, visit room 13G on the ground level to secure your card.


Community Events

*Health Care for All New York Annual Meeting- Join Citizen Action of New York at the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 262 State Street, Albany, NY 12210 (Parking lot entrance on Chestnut Street) to fight for health care justice. Time: Friday, December 4, 2009, from 11 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. (Snow date: December 11, 2009). RSVP online at: http://citizenactionny.org/hefany. Lunch will be served.

*"You're Not Pretty Enough": The Failure to be the Ideal Self in Adolescence and its Implications for Constriction in the Sense of Identity- Sponsored by the Metropolitan Institute for Training in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Time: Saturday, December 5th, 2009. For location & registration information, please contact mitppnyc@aol.com. Website: http://www.mitpp.org/.

*Unfolding the Secrets of the Brain-Presented by the Brain Injury Association of New York State & NYU Rusk Institute of Rehabiliation Medicine. Sponsored by Li Wang, President, CEO of Qingdao Junlihao Group Co. This event is a one-day symposium exploring cutting-edge research on the brain and brain injury. Time: Friday, 12/4, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Location: NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases, 301 East 17th Street, New York, NY. Symposium Chair: Steven Flanagan, M.D., Professor and Chairman, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, Member, Board of Directors, Brain Injury Association of NYS. Registration fee: $150.00, Students, $75.00, BIANYS members, $25.00. Check out BIANYS website: http://www.bianys.org/ for program updates and information on pending professional accreditation.

*National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence/Westchester, Inc. (NCADD)-For information on the up-coming CASAC Training Program and/or Family Information Series, please call (914) 949-8500 or check out their website at http://www.ncaddwestchester.org/.

*Children FIRST Scholars Art Supplies Drive- Donations for schools in need. Dates: 12/01-12/05. Drop off at Fordham Westchester Campus Lobby. Suggested donations include: markers, construction paper, origomi paper, crayons, play doh, clay, glitter, stickers, scissors, paints, & paint brushes.

*Social Work and Spirituality, Working with Children: Issues of Illness, Loss, and Trauma- Sponsored by the Silver School of Social Work, NYU. Co-sponsored by WJA Federation of New York. Time: 12/9/09, 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Location: Silver School of Social Service, NYU, 1 Washington Square North, New York, NY 10003. $90 for the day (incl. breakfast & materials). Make checks payable to: NYU Social Work. Send payment to the above address to the attention of Priany Hadiatmodjo (FAX # 212-995-4172).

*Psychotherapy Treatment- Available through Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy. Referrals for treatment on a sliding scale. No insurance necessary. -Prompt referrals, very reasonable sliding scale fees. -Treatment provided by highly trained & experienced psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists. -Daytime & evening hours available, private offices in Westchester, Rockland, Fairfield Counties -Strict confidentiality, no insurance needed or utilized. -Long-term intensive treatment available, For application or more information: Call Nancy Bobker: (914) 967-1300 or visit their website: http://www.wcspp.orf/ (click treatment tab). WCSPP is a non-profit educational institution chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York.

*Zen Interfaith Sitting Meditation- Every Monday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Blessed Miguel Pro, S.J., Chapel located at Fordham Westchester. Free and open to all; No registration needed. For more information visit http://www.kennedyzen.org/ or contact Carol Gibney at (914) 367-3420.

*Undoing Racism Community Organizing Workshop-Follow up meeting on Monday, December 7th, 5:30-7 p.m. @ Fordham University/Westchester Campus in Harrison.


Student to Student

Do you have an announcement for other students; something to buy, sell, exchange; a group or activity you want to organize? Please e-mail your announcement to Henry Davis (hdavis8@fordham.edu) for posting.


Career Services/Licensing

Benay Lindenauer, Director of Career Services – lindenauer@fordham.edu, 212-636-7639.

Welcome to GSS News & Views!

Check in regularly, and feel free to contact any GSS staff member for support. Here is how you find us.

Janna C. Heyman, Ph.D., Associate Dean/Program Director; 917-367-3030, heyman@fordham.edu


Linda White-Ryan, LMSW, R.N., CASAC, Assistant Director; 914-367-3017, whiteryan@fordham.edu


Aida Lau, Academic Administrator, GSS Tuition Remission, alau@fordham.edu; 914-367-3104


Henry Davis, Assistant to the Dean/Faculty and Student Services, hdavis8@fordham.edu; 914-367-3101


Laura Sutter, Executive Secretary, lsutter@fordham.edu; 914-367-3108


Field Practicum staff :

Vincenza Corcoran, Associate Director, 914-367-3107; Corcoran@fordham.edu


Gail Davenport, Assistant Director, 914-367-3109; gdavenport@fordham.edu


GSSS Westchester Career Services:


Derek Brown, Coordinator of Career Services, adebrown@fordham.edu


________

Fordham Westchester Library Hours:


Monday-Thursday: 7 a.m.-11 p.m.


Friday: 7 a.m.-9 p.m.


Saturday & Sunday: 7 a.m.-6 p.m.


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