Board of Directors
The KSCSW Board of Directors is elected by the membership to govern the Society and oversee its activities. The Board of Directors is composed of six officers and one at large director for every 20 members. Board officers and most at large directors are required to be fully licensed clinical social workers in the state of Kentucky. Two at large positions may be held by members who are actively pursuing supervision for licensure and work in clinical practice, and one position may be held by a graduate student board member, who does not have voting privileges.
Monthly Board Meetings
The KSCSW Board of Directors meets on the second Monday of every month, except for January and July. All KSCSW members are invited to attend its meetings, which take place from 6:30 - 7:30 pm at the Cellar: 3256 Landsdowne Dr. Lexington, KY. You can also join virtually if you prefer by clicking here. You can find the links to join on our Training/Events Page
2023 Board of Directors
Monthly Board Meetings
The KSCSW Board of Directors meets on the second Monday of every month, except for January and July. All KSCSW members are invited to attend its meetings, which take place from 6:30 - 7:30 pm at the Cellar: 3256 Landsdowne Dr. Lexington, KY. You can also join virtually if you prefer by clicking here. You can find the links to join on our Training/Events Page
2023 Board of Directors
Chris Whitsell, LCSW - President, Membership Committee Member
I am 50 years old. I have three children; my oldest Taylor is 21 and is a senior at Harvard University...my middle is Kaylee and she is 18 and is graduating from Boyle Co HS and headed to U of Louisville this fall to major in nursing and my youngest is Kyle and he is 12 and attends Boyle Middle School. I have been married for 25 years to Christy who just retired as a Director in the New Vista Comp Care system. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and will be joining my practice. I enjoy anything outdoors, especially running. I have registered for my first Ultramarathon in November...a 50 miler. I retired from Community Mental Health in August of 2019 where I was the Director of Child and Family Services w/ The Adanta Group in Somerset, KY for two years. Before that I spent 27 years w/ Bluegrass.org (now known as New Vista), the last 7 years of this tenure as the Corporate Director of Child and Family services for the 17-county region. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since July 20, 2001 and hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky (`96 grad). Currently, I own and operate Whitsell Counseling & Supervision, LLC in Danville, KY. This is a private practice that I started 4 years ago. I provide individual and family therapy services, focusing in particular on children/adolescents and young adults. I emphasize a person-centered approach to services that prioritizes relationship and therapeutic alliance. I tend to be eclectic but am most comfortable with a cognitive-behavioral approach as well extremely sensitive to being trauma-informed. I also provide clinical supervision for CSW's both individually and via group (have a group that meets 1x month on Saturdays). I currently provide services in office space I sublease on 416 S 4th Street Danville, KY, but very recently leased space at 905 Hustonville Rd Suite 8 Danville, KY where my wife will join my practice to also provide counseling services. I also contract with Danville Independent School System to provide therapy, training and consultation services to students and staff. I also sit on the Board of Directors w/ Key Assets Kentucky. My wife and I are working with consultants currently to re-vamp the practice website and unveil a marketing campaign to help respond to service needs throughout the central KY area. We provide telehealth and in-person services.
I am 50 years old. I have three children; my oldest Taylor is 21 and is a senior at Harvard University...my middle is Kaylee and she is 18 and is graduating from Boyle Co HS and headed to U of Louisville this fall to major in nursing and my youngest is Kyle and he is 12 and attends Boyle Middle School. I have been married for 25 years to Christy who just retired as a Director in the New Vista Comp Care system. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and will be joining my practice. I enjoy anything outdoors, especially running. I have registered for my first Ultramarathon in November...a 50 miler. I retired from Community Mental Health in August of 2019 where I was the Director of Child and Family Services w/ The Adanta Group in Somerset, KY for two years. Before that I spent 27 years w/ Bluegrass.org (now known as New Vista), the last 7 years of this tenure as the Corporate Director of Child and Family services for the 17-county region. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since July 20, 2001 and hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky (`96 grad). Currently, I own and operate Whitsell Counseling & Supervision, LLC in Danville, KY. This is a private practice that I started 4 years ago. I provide individual and family therapy services, focusing in particular on children/adolescents and young adults. I emphasize a person-centered approach to services that prioritizes relationship and therapeutic alliance. I tend to be eclectic but am most comfortable with a cognitive-behavioral approach as well extremely sensitive to being trauma-informed. I also provide clinical supervision for CSW's both individually and via group (have a group that meets 1x month on Saturdays). I currently provide services in office space I sublease on 416 S 4th Street Danville, KY, but very recently leased space at 905 Hustonville Rd Suite 8 Danville, KY where my wife will join my practice to also provide counseling services. I also contract with Danville Independent School System to provide therapy, training and consultation services to students and staff. I also sit on the Board of Directors w/ Key Assets Kentucky. My wife and I are working with consultants currently to re-vamp the practice website and unveil a marketing campaign to help respond to service needs throughout the central KY area. We provide telehealth and in-person services.
Scarlet Thomas, LCSW – Executive Director
Scarlet grew up in Southeastern Kentucky and now resides in Versailles. She and her wife have four children ranging in ages from 7 to 17. Scarlet is the program director at Behavioral Health Group where she supervises and assists counselors and staff who work with adults with opioid use disorders. She obtained her bachelors and master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky. She also spent four years attending seminary where she developed an interest in healing religious trauma. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Scarlet has worked in a variety of areas of social work including adolescent residential treatment, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, providing services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, outpatient therapy, and clinical management. Scarlet is passionate about the work of the KSCSW and hopes to help expand the services provided to new and established members.
Scarlet grew up in Southeastern Kentucky and now resides in Versailles. She and her wife have four children ranging in ages from 7 to 17. Scarlet is the program director at Behavioral Health Group where she supervises and assists counselors and staff who work with adults with opioid use disorders. She obtained her bachelors and master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky. She also spent four years attending seminary where she developed an interest in healing religious trauma. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Scarlet has worked in a variety of areas of social work including adolescent residential treatment, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, providing services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, outpatient therapy, and clinical management. Scarlet is passionate about the work of the KSCSW and hopes to help expand the services provided to new and established members.
Jennifer Connor-Godbey, LCSW - Governance Committee Chair, Education Committee Member, Supervision Committee Member
Jennifer Connor-Godbey is an outpatient counselor at the University of Kentucky Department of Psychiatry who works with adults, adolescents, and their families. Previously, she was the Program Director/Therapists for Florence Crittenton Home Residential Treatment Program. She has also worked for Bluegrass as an in-home therapist. Jennifer is certified in Eye Movement Desentization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I value the opportunity to network with so many talented clinical social workers. The professional relationships I have developed by being part of this Board have helped me in so many ways be a better clinician. I enjoy the opportunity to plan and host quality trainings. I also appreciate the timely information about opportunities to advocate in the legislature individually and collectively.
Jennifer Connor-Godbey is an outpatient counselor at the University of Kentucky Department of Psychiatry who works with adults, adolescents, and their families. Previously, she was the Program Director/Therapists for Florence Crittenton Home Residential Treatment Program. She has also worked for Bluegrass as an in-home therapist. Jennifer is certified in Eye Movement Desentization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I value the opportunity to network with so many talented clinical social workers. The professional relationships I have developed by being part of this Board have helped me in so many ways be a better clinician. I enjoy the opportunity to plan and host quality trainings. I also appreciate the timely information about opportunities to advocate in the legislature individually and collectively.
Beth Hellebusch, LCSW - Board Treasurer, Membership Committee Member
Beth is an outpatient counselor at the Healthfirst Bluegrass Integrated Care Clinic who sees a variety of patients; adults, adolescents, children and their families. Previously, she was the Director of Outpatient Services at the Ridge, Director of IMPACT Plus at KVC Behavioral Healthcare and TeenPOP Program Director at Bluegrass.org. She served as an At-Large Board member for two terms until 2013.
I am so excited to be returning to the Board; working with the dedicated Board Members and the opportunity to connect with and learn from social work professionals.
Beth is an outpatient counselor at the Healthfirst Bluegrass Integrated Care Clinic who sees a variety of patients; adults, adolescents, children and their families. Previously, she was the Director of Outpatient Services at the Ridge, Director of IMPACT Plus at KVC Behavioral Healthcare and TeenPOP Program Director at Bluegrass.org. She served as an At-Large Board member for two terms until 2013.
I am so excited to be returning to the Board; working with the dedicated Board Members and the opportunity to connect with and learn from social work professionals.
Katherina Terhune Ph. D, LCSW - Secretary, Governance Committee Member
Katherina Terhune, Ph.D., LCSW, is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at Northern Kentucky University. She earned her Ph.D. in Gerontology from the University of Kentucky, as well as a Master’s degree in Social Work. Her research specializations include the mental health impact of dementia caregiving, and gerontological literacy among college students. She is a licensed clinical social worker, and has over 15 years of experience working as a mental health clinician, and continues to maintain a private practice. Dr. Terhune’s teaching, research, and clinical work all reflect a commitment to improving emotional well-being. Dr. Terhune is an appointed member of the Ethics Committee for the National Association of Social Workers (Kentucky Chapter), a member of the Academic Program Development Workgroup for the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education, and is the Vice President of the Board of Directors for the National Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation. She has been a member of the Kentucky Society for Clinical Social Work since 2016, and is excited to expand her involvement and contributions to KSCSW.
Katherina Terhune, Ph.D., LCSW, is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at Northern Kentucky University. She earned her Ph.D. in Gerontology from the University of Kentucky, as well as a Master’s degree in Social Work. Her research specializations include the mental health impact of dementia caregiving, and gerontological literacy among college students. She is a licensed clinical social worker, and has over 15 years of experience working as a mental health clinician, and continues to maintain a private practice. Dr. Terhune’s teaching, research, and clinical work all reflect a commitment to improving emotional well-being. Dr. Terhune is an appointed member of the Ethics Committee for the National Association of Social Workers (Kentucky Chapter), a member of the Academic Program Development Workgroup for the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education, and is the Vice President of the Board of Directors for the National Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation. She has been a member of the Kentucky Society for Clinical Social Work since 2016, and is excited to expand her involvement and contributions to KSCSW.
Jacqueline Thomas, MSW, LCSW - Advocacy Committee Co-Chair, At- Large Member
Jacqueline currently works for Bluegrass Family Consultants in Lexington and she is also a social worker for the University of Kentucky transplant clinic. She has a diverse background working with crisis, community practice and private practice. Jacqueline specializes in childhood and adult trauma, anxiety issues and eating disorders, but she loves working with a multitude of needs beyond that. She is certified in EMDR and enjoys incorporating it into her sessions. She moved to Kentucky in November of 2018 and would love to be a part of the board to further her connections and to be more involved in the social work community in Kentucky.
Jacqueline currently works for Bluegrass Family Consultants in Lexington and she is also a social worker for the University of Kentucky transplant clinic. She has a diverse background working with crisis, community practice and private practice. Jacqueline specializes in childhood and adult trauma, anxiety issues and eating disorders, but she loves working with a multitude of needs beyond that. She is certified in EMDR and enjoys incorporating it into her sessions. She moved to Kentucky in November of 2018 and would love to be a part of the board to further her connections and to be more involved in the social work community in Kentucky.
Colleen Bivens, LCSW - At- Large Member, Education Committee Member, Supervision Committee Member
I am Colleen Bivens. I graduated from the University of Kentucky with a masters in Social Work. In 2001 I obtained my LCSW. I have worked in the community mental health field for the past 27 years. For 13 years I worked as the clinical director for a therapeutic residential and foster care program. I worked a cumulative of 14 years in clinical outpatient programs. I taught part time for Campbellsville University School of Social Work and have provided supervision for many new clinicians. I retired 2 years ago and have continued to provide clinical supervision for prospective LCSWs. I am OLD. I have been blessed by a diversity of experience in my professional life. I am looking for a way to give back to the profession that has meant so much to me. I became involved with KSCSW two years ago and have been greatly impressed with the quality of the work done in this organization. As I live in Somerset, Ky, I would love to see more clinicians in the southern Ky area benefit from and become involved with KSCSW. I believe that participation in professional organizations greatly improves the professionalism of all. I would greatly appreciate an opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors of KSCSW.
I am Colleen Bivens. I graduated from the University of Kentucky with a masters in Social Work. In 2001 I obtained my LCSW. I have worked in the community mental health field for the past 27 years. For 13 years I worked as the clinical director for a therapeutic residential and foster care program. I worked a cumulative of 14 years in clinical outpatient programs. I taught part time for Campbellsville University School of Social Work and have provided supervision for many new clinicians. I retired 2 years ago and have continued to provide clinical supervision for prospective LCSWs. I am OLD. I have been blessed by a diversity of experience in my professional life. I am looking for a way to give back to the profession that has meant so much to me. I became involved with KSCSW two years ago and have been greatly impressed with the quality of the work done in this organization. As I live in Somerset, Ky, I would love to see more clinicians in the southern Ky area benefit from and become involved with KSCSW. I believe that participation in professional organizations greatly improves the professionalism of all. I would greatly appreciate an opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors of KSCSW.
Ivy Livengood, MSW, CSW - Membership Committee Co-Chair
Ivy earned her bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky in 2015. Since earning her bachelor's degree, she has traveled and lived in various areas where she worked as a social worker, gaining experience working with a variety of different populations. In 2017, she returned from the Peace Corps, where she served as an Environmental Educator in Nicaragua, educating youth and community members about concerns specific to that region. Ivy currently provides therapy at her sister's private practice: Your Guide to Livengood, where her interest lies in working with females and neurodivergent clients. She also provides Targeted Case Management at Resolutions Therapy Practice, where she works with individuals who have a co-occurring physical health condition and a mental health diagnosis. She provides advocacy, support, and assists individuals in understanding ways to manage their health in order to improve their quality of life. Ivy also owns and operates her business where she provides administrative consulting and credentialing for behavioral health entities. Ivy graduated with her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky in May 2023 where she also earned a graduate certificate in Clinical Social Work.
Ivy earned her bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky in 2015. Since earning her bachelor's degree, she has traveled and lived in various areas where she worked as a social worker, gaining experience working with a variety of different populations. In 2017, she returned from the Peace Corps, where she served as an Environmental Educator in Nicaragua, educating youth and community members about concerns specific to that region. Ivy currently provides therapy at her sister's private practice: Your Guide to Livengood, where her interest lies in working with females and neurodivergent clients. She also provides Targeted Case Management at Resolutions Therapy Practice, where she works with individuals who have a co-occurring physical health condition and a mental health diagnosis. She provides advocacy, support, and assists individuals in understanding ways to manage their health in order to improve their quality of life. Ivy also owns and operates her business where she provides administrative consulting and credentialing for behavioral health entities. Ivy graduated with her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky in May 2023 where she also earned a graduate certificate in Clinical Social Work.
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Ellen Livengood, LCSW - Membership Committee Co-Chair
Ellen graduated with her Masters degree in 2014. During her last year of graduate school, she worked at Eastern State Hospital where she interned for her final semester in grad school. After graduating she was offered a full-time position with Eastern State Hospital, transitioning from mental health associate to clinical social worker. She worked at Eastern State from January 2013 to October 2019 and had what she described as an "incredible experience." Her role at Eastern State provided her with experience in extensive assessment, group therapy, individual therapy, clinical observations, case management and so much more. She obtained her clinical license in Feb 2017 and accepted a full-time position at the University of Kentucky Behavioral Health Intake Department the following year while continuing to work at Eastern State part time. She and her team worked extensively with the Columbia Suicide Risk Assessment under a new behaviora health program being implemented at the time. After a short year and a half, she took an interest in outpatient therapy. She connected with a former friend and colleague Jason Muzzillo with Resolutions Therapy Practice and began her outpatient journey at the end of 2019. After being exposed to the outpatient therapy world, receiving ongoing psychodynamic consultation in and participating in her own psychodynamic psychotherapy she was inspired to open her own practice. In 2021 she started her own practice; Your Guide to Livengood. |
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Andrea "Andi" Sparrow, LCSW- At Large Member
Andi works in private practice in Frankfort, KY. She provides individual therapy services to adults and adolescents. Andi is a part-time instructor for the College of Social Work at the University of Kentucky. She has taught BSW and MSW courses for the past four years. She enjoys being an integral team member in teaching new social workers. Andi is an active member of KSCSW. She assists in facilitating KSCSW’s monthly peer supervision meetings. Before working in private practice, Andi worked in various community mental health agencies in central Kentucky, such as Key Assets, SAFY of Lexington, UK’s Center of Trauma and Children (CTAC), and Nolachuckey Mental Health Center, which is in east Tennessee. She has extensive experience working with children, families, and adults who need mental health services. During her employment with these agencies, Andi cultivated collaborative and working relationships with other community providers to try to help meet the client’s needs. In 2014, Andi was an employee of UK CTAC and she organized, facilitated, and assisted in training various community service providers throughout Kentucky about the importance of trauma-informed care. Andi took a small break from the field of social work in 2007. She explored retail management. This experience enhanced her leadership skills but most importantly, stoked the passion she has for the field of social work. She left retail management, started the journey of graduate school, and obtained her MSW from UK in 2014. Andi continues to advance her social work education and will start work on her DSW in the fall of 2022 at the University of Louisville, Kent School of Social Work. Andi is passionate about self-care. She enjoys spending time gardening, raising backyard chickens, learning how to play the banjo, playing fetch with her black lab, Sadie, camping, and hosting family gatherings. She encourages others to make self-care a priority and to enjoy the little things we can do daily to take care of ourselves. Andi wants to continue to advocate for changing or enhancing organizational self-care to promote healthy work environments and reduce rates of burnout and attrition for social workers. |
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Cerenity Leavell-Barker, DSW, LSCW, At Large Member
Cerenity Leavell-Barker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Kentucky. Dr. Leavell-Barker earned her Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate degrees in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. Over the last six years, Dr. Leavell-Barker’s clinical experiences have included intensive in-home therapy, therapeutic foster care, private practice, school-based services and higher education. Dr. Leavell-Barker’s practice approach is strengths-based, social justice -informed, and trauma-informed. As a clinician and advocate, Dr. Leavell-Barker strives to work from an integrative lens |
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Emily Moseley, MSW, LCSW, Education Co-Chair
Emily is a LCSW and an Outpatient Clinician. working primarily with adults. In 2021, Emily earned her MSW at the University of Kentucky and received a BFA in Photography from the University of Colorado-Denver in 2006. While in graduate school, Emily was a Research Assistant at the Human Development Institute and worked on research and community projects aimed at improving lives and outcomes for people with disabilities across their lifespans. Working in Community Mental Health exposes Emily to many different types of clinical presentations, and she is enjoying the learning experience. Emily is passionate about the work of KSCSW and looks forward to being the Educational Chair for the Board. I look forward to connecting with other social workers and learning and growing alongside other dedicated professionals in our field. |
Emilie Carter, MSW, LCSW, At large Member
Emilie is a Clinical Faculty member of the School of Social Work at Northern Kentucky University. She also maintains a small clinical practice as the owner of Made for More Counseling in Lexington, KY serving exclusively women. Emilie specializes in working with mood disorders, grief, codependency, and issues stemming from life transitions. She also holds a Master Certification in Accelerated Resolution Therapy and works extensively with trauma issues. Prior to moving into clinical work in 2005, Emilie spent several years with DCBS working in child protection and foster care.
Emilie is a Clinical Faculty member of the School of Social Work at Northern Kentucky University. She also maintains a small clinical practice as the owner of Made for More Counseling in Lexington, KY serving exclusively women. Emilie specializes in working with mood disorders, grief, codependency, and issues stemming from life transitions. She also holds a Master Certification in Accelerated Resolution Therapy and works extensively with trauma issues. Prior to moving into clinical work in 2005, Emilie spent several years with DCBS working in child protection and foster care.
Meredith Sunley, LCSW, At Large Member
Meredith Sunley earned her MSW from the University of Kentucky in 2017, after a fifteen year career in bookselling. After working in school, home, and hospital settings, she found her calling as a clinician with a focus on trauma related disorders. She now works with a diverse population of first responders and veterans, survivors of childhood trauma and IPV, and members of marginalized groups who have experienced lifelong adversity due to sociocultural factors. She is passionate in her commitment to social justice, and proud to be a part of a profession in which this is an ethical mandate. When not in the office, you may find her singing at the top of her lungs (sometimes on-key), or camped out in a coffee house writing poetry.
Meredith Sunley earned her MSW from the University of Kentucky in 2017, after a fifteen year career in bookselling. After working in school, home, and hospital settings, she found her calling as a clinician with a focus on trauma related disorders. She now works with a diverse population of first responders and veterans, survivors of childhood trauma and IPV, and members of marginalized groups who have experienced lifelong adversity due to sociocultural factors. She is passionate in her commitment to social justice, and proud to be a part of a profession in which this is an ethical mandate. When not in the office, you may find her singing at the top of her lungs (sometimes on-key), or camped out in a coffee house writing poetry.
Brittany Gentry, LCSW, At Large Member
Brittany Gentry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Dr. Gentry obtained her Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Gentry is currently the Co-Clinical Director at the Trauma-Informed Counseling Center (T.I.C.C) and Founder of the Trauma, Education, and Advocacy Corporation (TEA), a non-profit agency in Lexington, KY. TEA aims to educate, empower, and provide Lexington adolescents and families through trauma-informed care, advocacy, mentorship, and resources. At the same time, it brings awareness to the ongoing need for effective community collaborations.
Over the last ten years, Dr. Gentry has provided therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and families in various therapeutic settings (in-home, outpatient, and school-based). Despite her experience with various populations, Dr. Gentry’s true passion is with working with adolescents involved in the juvenile justice system. Within the last two years, Dr. Gentry conducted workshop presentations
at the Black Mental Health Symposium and the National Association of Black Social Workers Conferences.
Brittany Gentry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Dr. Gentry obtained her Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Gentry is currently the Co-Clinical Director at the Trauma-Informed Counseling Center (T.I.C.C) and Founder of the Trauma, Education, and Advocacy Corporation (TEA), a non-profit agency in Lexington, KY. TEA aims to educate, empower, and provide Lexington adolescents and families through trauma-informed care, advocacy, mentorship, and resources. At the same time, it brings awareness to the ongoing need for effective community collaborations.
Over the last ten years, Dr. Gentry has provided therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and families in various therapeutic settings (in-home, outpatient, and school-based). Despite her experience with various populations, Dr. Gentry’s true passion is with working with adolescents involved in the juvenile justice system. Within the last two years, Dr. Gentry conducted workshop presentations
at the Black Mental Health Symposium and the National Association of Black Social Workers Conferences.
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JuliAnna DeJesus, Student Board Member
JuliAnna DeJesus is a licensed Mental Health Associate and the Reentry Case Manager at the county jail in Hopkinsville, KY. JuliAnna has almost 7 years of substance use experience and has been a full-time employee at Pennyroyal Mental Health Center for 6 years. JuliAnna graduated Cum Laude with her Bachelor’s in Social Work at Murray State University in 2022. JuliAnna is currently a graduate student at the College of Social Work, University of Kentucky. JuliAnna is certified to facilitate Moral Reconation Therapy, Targeted Case Management, and Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention. JuliAnna is currently a member of the National Association of Social Workers and the National Society of Leadership and Success. JuliAnna has the strengths of advocating for clients, empathy, communication, teaching, and being culturally competent. |
Alex Winn-Marvin, CSW, Treasurer Elect, At Large Member
Alex is an Outpatient Clinician at Healthfirst Bluegrass in the Tates Creek High School Clinic, working primarily with adolescents. A graduate of the University of Kentucky for her BSW and Campbellsville University for her MSW, Alex is now working towards her LCSW. Before becoming a clinician, Alex started her social work career in case management at Catholic Charities, serving families and individuals in need during the pandemic. From there she worked for the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General as a victim advocate for human trafficking victims around the state. She enjoyed learning about the importance of social workers and advocates being involved in the criminal justice system, and the difference it can make in a survivor’s healing process. When she obtained her CSW license, Alex began working with clients with Substance Use and Co-occurring disorders. It gave her an opportunity to work with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and other hardships and allowed her to explore the impact addiction continues to have on our community. Having been a dance teacher for almost 15 years, Alex has always been passionate about working with children and was excited when she was offered a position working exclusively with children and adolescents at Healthfirst Bluegrass. When not in the office, you can find her at dance class or hanging out with one of the 4 pets she owns (2 dogs, a cat, and a rabbit).
Alex is an Outpatient Clinician at Healthfirst Bluegrass in the Tates Creek High School Clinic, working primarily with adolescents. A graduate of the University of Kentucky for her BSW and Campbellsville University for her MSW, Alex is now working towards her LCSW. Before becoming a clinician, Alex started her social work career in case management at Catholic Charities, serving families and individuals in need during the pandemic. From there she worked for the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General as a victim advocate for human trafficking victims around the state. She enjoyed learning about the importance of social workers and advocates being involved in the criminal justice system, and the difference it can make in a survivor’s healing process. When she obtained her CSW license, Alex began working with clients with Substance Use and Co-occurring disorders. It gave her an opportunity to work with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and other hardships and allowed her to explore the impact addiction continues to have on our community. Having been a dance teacher for almost 15 years, Alex has always been passionate about working with children and was excited when she was offered a position working exclusively with children and adolescents at Healthfirst Bluegrass. When not in the office, you can find her at dance class or hanging out with one of the 4 pets she owns (2 dogs, a cat, and a rabbit).
Tomerial Brooks, LCSW, At Large Member
I have been a social worker for over 15 years and while the majority of my focus and work have been of a clinical nature, I am finding I hold a strong interest in mezzo and macro levels of social work. The Doctoral Social Work program I where I am a third-year student at the University of Kentucky has been instrumental in my intentional efforts at becoming more involved with organizations and activities that will push social work forward and I am working toward developing more as a leader in the field.
Networking and connecting with other Social Workers is important and serving on the Board would provide an opportunity for that connection as we work together in promoting and practicing social work values in a variety of capacities. I would like to bring my skills having a business background, strategic planning skills and utilize my DEI certification where applicable as a Board of Directors member that might complement the work the Board already does in a useful and collaborative capacity. I am a servant leader and serving on the Board would provide an opportunity to serve others, give back to the profession and keep me passionate about a field I love to work in.
I have been a social worker for over 15 years and while the majority of my focus and work have been of a clinical nature, I am finding I hold a strong interest in mezzo and macro levels of social work. The Doctoral Social Work program I where I am a third-year student at the University of Kentucky has been instrumental in my intentional efforts at becoming more involved with organizations and activities that will push social work forward and I am working toward developing more as a leader in the field.
Networking and connecting with other Social Workers is important and serving on the Board would provide an opportunity for that connection as we work together in promoting and practicing social work values in a variety of capacities. I would like to bring my skills having a business background, strategic planning skills and utilize my DEI certification where applicable as a Board of Directors member that might complement the work the Board already does in a useful and collaborative capacity. I am a servant leader and serving on the Board would provide an opportunity to serve others, give back to the profession and keep me passionate about a field I love to work in.
Duties
Duties of the President
The President:
A. Shall be Chairperson of the Board of Directors, preside at all general Society meetings, and shall perform such other duties as ordinarily pertain to the Office.
B. Shall call regular and special meetings.
C. Shall appoint the Chairperson of the standing and all other necessary committees except as otherwise provided, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors.
D. Shall make interim appointments to fill vacancies in an elected office with the approval of the Board of Directors.
E. Shall appoint the Society representative to the Clinical Social Work Association.
F. Shall have the authority to make contracts with the approval of the Board.
Duties of the President-Elect
The President-Elect:
A. Shall discharge the duties of President when the President is unable to act.
B. Shall carry out duties assigned by the President with responsibility in a significant area of need, including but not limited to, chairing the Program Committee or administrative support of the Standing Committees.
Duties of the Secretary
The Secretary:
A. Shall record and keep the permanent minutes of General Membership and Board of Directors meetings. Minutes shall be stored on file in Dropbox or online storage after they have been approved.
B. Shall act as or appoint a temporary Chairperson in the absence of both the President and the President-Elect.
Duties of the Treasurer
The Treasurer:
A. Shall submit the annual plan and budget proposal to the Board for approval. The approved budge will authorize the Treasurer and/or the Executive Director/Assistant to expend funds.
B. In coordination with the Executive Director shall collect dues, receive monies payable to the Society, pay all bills, and expend these monies in accordance with the fiscal policies and budget established by the Board.
C. All expenditures by the Board shall be approved by majority vote and recorded in the minutes.
D. Shall present written financial reports at least quarterly. This shall be done at Board meetings or by e-mail to the members of the Board of Directors.
E. Shall serve as Chairperson of the Finance Committee (when needed)with responsibility to enact and administer disbursement policies and procedures under direction of the Board.
F. Shall file all necessary tax documents.
In terms of what I love about the position...I believe in the board mission. "There is no mission without money"
Duties of the Past-President
The Past-President:
A. Shall serve in an advisory role to the Board of Directors.
B. Shall serve as chairperson of both the Governance and Nominating Committees.
Past President is responsible for elections and awards, primarily. In the spring, we hold an election and the governing committee puts together ballots and facilitates the election and orientation of new members.
In the fall, we get nominations for scholarships and awards and vote on recipients using the rubric. And during the winter there is a review of policies and procedures to ensure they stay up to date. The past president is chair of the governance committee and advises the board, overall.
And me, I love being on this board – it has given back for any and every effort I have put in! The roles I have had in the society have helped me grow as a professional and have given me opportunities at the regional and state level to build relationships and be a part of changes I would have never been able to imagine on my own. My life is better and richer for this association. We are all so fortunate to have this foundation and support for the profession and each other.
The President:
A. Shall be Chairperson of the Board of Directors, preside at all general Society meetings, and shall perform such other duties as ordinarily pertain to the Office.
B. Shall call regular and special meetings.
C. Shall appoint the Chairperson of the standing and all other necessary committees except as otherwise provided, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors.
D. Shall make interim appointments to fill vacancies in an elected office with the approval of the Board of Directors.
E. Shall appoint the Society representative to the Clinical Social Work Association.
F. Shall have the authority to make contracts with the approval of the Board.
Duties of the President-Elect
The President-Elect:
A. Shall discharge the duties of President when the President is unable to act.
B. Shall carry out duties assigned by the President with responsibility in a significant area of need, including but not limited to, chairing the Program Committee or administrative support of the Standing Committees.
Duties of the Secretary
The Secretary:
A. Shall record and keep the permanent minutes of General Membership and Board of Directors meetings. Minutes shall be stored on file in Dropbox or online storage after they have been approved.
B. Shall act as or appoint a temporary Chairperson in the absence of both the President and the President-Elect.
Duties of the Treasurer
The Treasurer:
A. Shall submit the annual plan and budget proposal to the Board for approval. The approved budge will authorize the Treasurer and/or the Executive Director/Assistant to expend funds.
B. In coordination with the Executive Director shall collect dues, receive monies payable to the Society, pay all bills, and expend these monies in accordance with the fiscal policies and budget established by the Board.
C. All expenditures by the Board shall be approved by majority vote and recorded in the minutes.
D. Shall present written financial reports at least quarterly. This shall be done at Board meetings or by e-mail to the members of the Board of Directors.
E. Shall serve as Chairperson of the Finance Committee (when needed)with responsibility to enact and administer disbursement policies and procedures under direction of the Board.
F. Shall file all necessary tax documents.
In terms of what I love about the position...I believe in the board mission. "There is no mission without money"
Duties of the Past-President
The Past-President:
A. Shall serve in an advisory role to the Board of Directors.
B. Shall serve as chairperson of both the Governance and Nominating Committees.
Past President is responsible for elections and awards, primarily. In the spring, we hold an election and the governing committee puts together ballots and facilitates the election and orientation of new members.
In the fall, we get nominations for scholarships and awards and vote on recipients using the rubric. And during the winter there is a review of policies and procedures to ensure they stay up to date. The past president is chair of the governance committee and advises the board, overall.
And me, I love being on this board – it has given back for any and every effort I have put in! The roles I have had in the society have helped me grow as a professional and have given me opportunities at the regional and state level to build relationships and be a part of changes I would have never been able to imagine on my own. My life is better and richer for this association. We are all so fortunate to have this foundation and support for the profession and each other.