On October 1, 2008 the Committee on Human Services marked up the Mayor's appointment of Ms. Willa Day Morris, Dr. Eileen Dombo, and Ms. Sharon Cascone as members of the Board of Social Work. The Committee strongly believes that each nominee will bring to their appointment not only a wealth of diverse professional experiences but also a demonstrated commitment to the profession of social work.

The Board of Social Work is responsible for the regulation of the practice of social work in the District of Columbia. The Board fulfills this important function by ensuring the protection of the health, safety, and well-being of the public by setting the standards for qualification, training, and experience for those individuals who desire to become engaged in the professional practice of social work and by promoting high standards of ethical and professional performance for those currently practicing as social workers. The Board has the rulemaking authority to define the scope of social work practice, recommend professional standards and procedures, to license or credential all social work practitioners, to take disciplinary action, as necessary, based on formal complaints, and the authority to implement and monitor continuing education requirements. 

The profession of social work has a profound impact on the wellbeing of the lives of many residents and vulnerable populations in the District who are faced with some of society’s greatest ills. These individuals struggle daily with poverty, substance abuse, domestic violence, generational family dysfunction, sexual abuse, physical abuse, homelessness, mental illness, unemployment, gang violence, and a host of other very real and challenging issues. It is imperative that the Board of Social Work members understand the severity of their mandate in ensuring that residents of the District receive services from social workers who adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards.