3 days ago3 min read

Unveiling Our Dynamic Board: Discovering their Fall Delights and Impactful Endeavors

As autumn transforms the landscape with its vibrant colors and crisp air, it is a fitting time to celebrate the remarkable individuals who guide our organization. Our board members bring not only a wealth of experience but also their unique passions and fall favorites that enrich our community. Their dedication drives our mission forward and makes a meaningful difference.

Join us as we delve into the stories of our dynamic board members, uncover their cherished autumn activities, and some insights into their impactful contributions. Get cozy, pour yourself a warm beverage, and let’s explore the inspiring leaders in our midst!

Meet Our Board Members

Eager Enthusiasm: Kashera Guy-Robinson

Kashera Guy-Robinson has been the Southern Regional Representative on our board for the last year. Her commitment to regional outreach has fueled numerous projects, showcasing her belief in connecting and engaging with those in the south.

Fall Favorites: Kashera's fall favorite is drinking apple cider, a warm drink which reflects her commitment to warm conversation and connection.

Board Endeavors: Kashera has enjoyed meeting with people who live all over the country who, like herself, are committed to improving the profession of school social work. Having the opportunity to work with the SSWAA Conference Planning Committee to help plan parts of the National Conference in Atlanta in April of 2025 is something Kashera is most proud of.

Committed collaborator: Marina Badillo-diaz

Marina Badillo-Diaz is completing her term as the Northeast Regional Representative. Her networking abilities have driven her ongoing efforts to communicate and network with the leaders and members in her region.

Fall Favorites: When fall arrives, you might find Marina out visiting a nearby orchard for her favorite fall activity of apple picking.

Board Endeavors: Marina has been an active member of multiple committees which has moved forward Board work. Marina has expressed pride in being a part of the strategic planning process for the 2025-2026 strategic plan.

Connection Through sharing: sheri olson

Sheri Olson is completing her first year of a two-year term as the Western Regional Representative. Sheri has served on the SSWAA Board in the past and is passionate about building capacity in her region and supporting the development of new state organizations in the west.

Fall Favorites: When the temperatures start to cool, Sheri loves taking a drive to see the emerging colors during the fall season.

Board Endeavors: Ongoing commitment to social emotional learning (SEL) efforts have been a feature of Sheri's work. She also has noted that one of her most meaningful accomplishments this year has been the connections she has made while sharing her work and expertise with other school social workers in the west through Solution Builders.

Driving collective Action: michelle alvarez

Returning to the SSWAA Board as the President Elect, Michelle's innovative mindset and commitment to engaging members in SSWAA's work, has already made an impact. She focuses on collaborative solutions and member engagement to address challenges to the profession.

Fall Favorites: For Michelle, autumn means the brilliance of the transformation of nature. She cherishes the fall beauty by taking a drive with family to observe the changing leaves.

Board Endeavors: Michelle's ideas and commitment to uplifting member voice have led SSWAA to collect and weave member input into an ambitious strategic plan for 2025-2026. Additionally, she looks forward to engaging as many members as possible into the implementation of the plan. Michelle says that listening to members about what they need SSWAA to focus on is what she really enjoys and is what motivates her work.

The Importance of Our Board's Work

The collective impact of our board members fosters a thriving environment for both the organization and the community we serve. Each decision and project reflects their commitment to making a real difference. Their diverse backgrounds complement each other, creating a well-rounded leadership team that propels our mission forward.

Together, they advocate for change, invite involvement, and advance the profession. Their dedication to community service serves as a beacon of inspiration to everyone involved.

Celebrating Our Leaders

As we embrace the beauty and warmth of fall, we celebrate the incredible contributions of our board members, their autumn favorites, and the impact of their work. Their unique stories and passion create a vibrant system that enriches our organization and community.

Join us in appreciating these remarkable leaders who inspire change and progress every day. Thank you for taking the time to learn about our board—we are proud to have such dedicated individuals leading our efforts!