Symposium Overview

With high unemployment rates, rising health care costs, a lagging real estate market, inequitable access to educational opportunities, a struggling small business sector, and an increasingly divided government, Americans are more vulnerable than ever in their efforts to shoulder the impact of the economic recession. Facing these challenges will require fresh perspectives that can be implemented locally.

The 5th Annual African American and Latino Social Work Symposium will examine this critical problem and give guidance to stakeholders who are fighting to survive in the deepening recession and discuss the roles that politics, education, religion and economic development play.

The symposium will feature a keynote address, special panel discussion with past keynote speakers, and information packed breakout sessions that will inform and inspire participants.

2012 Keynote Speaker:

Toni Preckwinkle, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, will deliver the keynote address and will be awarded the 2012 Visionary Social Work Award for her outstanding leadership, professional achievements,commitment and service to the African American and Latino communities.

Special Panel Discussion with Past Keynote Speakers:

To commemorate the 5th Anniversary of Dominican's African American and Latino Social Work Symposium, past keynote speakers will participate in a special panel presentation where they will address the symposium's theme -- How to Survive and Thrive in a Deepening Recession: The role of politics, education, religion and economic development. Confirmed panelists include Stedman Graham, Chairman & CEO, S. Graham & Associates; Dr. Cheryl Johnson-Odim, Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dominican University; and Reverend Michael Pfleger, Saint Sabina Church.

Breakout Sessions:
  • The role of political advocacy as a community change agent
  • The linkage between education and obtaining employment
  • The role of spirituality as a sustaining force in the community
  • Economic and social development as a catalyst for business and job creation

For sponsorship and general information, please call Felicia L. Townsend at (708) 771-5298 or ftownsend@dom.edu .

March 29, 2012

Co-sponsored by

Circuit Court of Cook County Juvenile Justice Division



Media and Session Sponsor






Session Sponsor

 

 

Community Partners