School of Social Welfare Hosts LI School Social Workers’ Conference

The Stony Brook University School of Social Welfare (SSW) welcomed more than 120 school social workers from public and private schools across Nassau and Suffolk counties for the second annual Long Island School Social Workers’ Conference on June 2.

This year’s theme, School Social Work: Embodiment and Emotional Regulation Strategies for Students, focused on somatic practices and emotional wellness tools designed to support students in school settings.

Co-sponsored by the New York State School Social Workers’ Association, the event was organized by Robin DeLuca-Acconi, clinical associate professor and director of the SSW Workforce Development, Programs and Partnerships.

The conference created a dynamic space for school social workers to connect, collaborate and share practical strategies that support their day-to-day work. Notably, the event welcomed many SSW alumni, whose presence underscored the strong professional network that the program has cultivated.

“It was a heartfelt gathering of professionals and kindness; you could feel the joy and buzz throughout the day,” said Chris Carlozzo, a 2018 graduate of the SSW’s Advanced Standing MSW Program and 2017 BSW graduate, who now serves as a district social worker in the Central Islip School District.

“Each of the keynote speakers was engaging, refreshing, and innovative to our field, and the breakout rooms were geared to our daily work,” Carlozzo added. “Since we as a profession do not always have representation or time to collaborate, it was truly a great experience.”

Read the full story on the School of Social Welfare website.