As 207 graduates received their degrees this June from the Graduate School of Social Work, honors also were bestowed on a longtime friend of the school and on four GSSW faculty and staff members whose teaching and support of students has been particularly notable during the past academic year.
Philip D. Winn receives honorary doctorate
At the University of Denver's Commencement Ceremony, Chancellor Robert Coombe awarded an honorary doctorate of public service to Philip D. Winn, who helped found the GSSW's Bridge Project in 1991. Winn served under President Ronald Regan as U.S. Ambassador to Switzerland from 1988 to 1989. Previously, Winn was Chairman of the Board of Philips Development Corporation and Chairman of the Board of Philip D. Winn & Associates, Inc.
Serving more than 500 children, youth and families in Denver's public housing developments each year, the Bridge Project is designed to break the cycle of poverty by providing tutoring, computer skills, mentoring and scholarships. Ambassador Winn and his wife have continued their steadfast support of Bridge and GSSW over the years, including endowment of the Philip D. and Eleanor G. Winn Professorship for Children and Youth at Risk in 2007. Currently held by GSSW Professor Jeffrey M. Jenson, PhD, nationally known for his work with at-risk youth, the Winn endowed professorship is the first in GSSW's history.
Faculty and staff awards presented
Two faculty members were honored at the GSSW Recognition Ceremony, held at the University's Cable Center the day before Commencement. Dean James Herbert Williams presented Excellence in Teaching Awards to Assistant Professor Kimberly Bender, PhD, and Adjunct Professor Jae McQueen, MSW '00. These awards are presented annually to one appointed faculty member and one adjunct faculty member whose teaching is of the highest quality and has made an important impact on students' educational experiences. McQueen also serves as President of GSSW?s Alumni Association.
Also honored at the GSSW Recognition Ceremony were staff members Ryan Garrett, Manager of Technology Operations, and Ethan Crawford, Digital Instruction Specialist, who received the Excellence in Service to Students Award. This award honors GSSW staff members who have provided exemplary service to students during the past academic year.
Watch a video of the University of Denver Commencement Ceremony online.
