NASW Candidate Platform 2025

Biographical Statement

Dr. Patricia Gray, Ed.D., LCSW, earned her MSW from Columbia University School of Social Work in 1990 and her Ed.D. in Executive Leadership from St. John Fisher University in 2019. She is a full-time doctoral lecturer at the Silberman School of Social Work. Recently certified as an Afrocentric Social Work Practitioner, Dr. Gray is deeply committed to ongoing professional development. Her 35+ years of experience span mental health, child welfare, early intervention, homelessness, supportive housing, addiction services, and academia. She provides clinical services, supervision, staff development, training, and case management. Through her private practice, Hyacinth LCSW Services, she offers mental health support, adoption home studies, custody review assistance, and service  coordination. Dr. Gray is the recipient of the NASW-NYC Ruby Award (2019) and serves as Co-Section Editor for  Reflections: Narratives of Professional Helping, an online journal.

Platform Statement

For decades, social workers have responded to evolving needs across communities. Similarly, NASW was created  to support the profession—through advocacy, policy, and professional development. I bring leadership grounded in  service, commitment, and vision, and I believe in the power of collective action: out of many, we are one. As a  candidate for NASW-NY President, I am prepared to help shape the Chapter’s future direction. We must honor the  work of those before us while planning for what lies ahead. I ask: What is the future of social work in New York?  Where do we see NASW in the next ten years? What barriers stand in our way? We need leadership that listens,  builds, and acts—with transparency, intention, and integrity. Together, we can set clear goals, empower others,  build strong coalitions, and create purpose-driven strategies that support a sustainable, vibrant NASW NY Chapter.

Amira Martin-Saltsman, LCSW-R, Founder and Clinical Director, MA Therapy, LLC;  Adjunct Lecturer, Columbia University School of Social Work

Biographical Statement

Amira Martin-Saltsman, LCSW-R, is a licensed psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, educator,  and founder of MA Therapy, LLC—a group practice with three culturally responsive divisions:  Amira for Her, Amira for Him, and Amira for Them. With over two decades of leadership across  New York State, she has built clinical teams, launched school-based programs, and mentored  over 50 social workers toward independent licensure. Amira has held leadership roles at the

Jewish Board and WJCS and currently teaches clinical practice at Columbia University. She completed executive  leadership training at MIT Sloan School of Management. A Bronx native raised during the 1980s, Amira was a teen  mom who balanced motherhood, work, and school with grit and planning. She now lives in Western NY with her  husband Brian and daughter Sarah, while maintaining deep NYC roots. She’s a mother of three, grandmother of  two, sister to six, and proud dog mom to German shepherds Gina and Bella.

Platform Statement

I am running for NASW-NY President to help shape a more united, visionary, and action-driven future for our  profession. My leadership is rooted in lived experience and statewide practice—from building school-based teams  and community partnerships to scaling a private practice that centers equity, representation, and accessibility. I’ve  worked in nonprofits, hospitals, classrooms, and private sector systems. I understand what it means to lead from  every level. As President, I will focus on three pillars: representation, accountability, and infrastructure. I will  strengthen our foundation so social workers in every county feel supported and heard. I will advance initiatives that  protect the profession, expand licensure pathways, and ensure diverse social workers can thrive. As a Gen X  social worker who bridges generations, I value legacy, innovation, and connection. We are stronger together, and I  will lead with integrity, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in our collective power to transform systems—and  lives.

Dr. Marina Badillo-Diaz, DSW, LCSW, SIFI, LIU; Adjunct Professor, New York University Silver  School of Social Work; Founder & Consultant, MABD Consulting

Biographical Statement

Dr. Marina Badillo-Diaz is a social work educator, consultant, and school social work advocate  with a strong commitment to equity, innovation, and ethical practice. She has conducted trainings  for both the NASW-NYC and NASW-NYS Chapters and presented at the 2024 NASW National  Conference on the ethical use of AI in social work practice. She currently serves as an alternate  member of the National Committee on Nominations and Leadership Identification (NCNLI) for NYS Region II. Dr. Badillo-Diaz is the founder of the AI Social Worker and an adjunct professor teaching MSW  and post-graduate certificate courses at multiple universities in New York City, including Columbia University,  NYU, and Hunter College. She is also a board member of the School Social Work Association of America. Her  professional background spans school social work, higher education, clinical supervision, and program  development. Through her work, she continues to support social workers in building 21st-century skills while  advancing the mission and values of the profession.

Platform Statement

As a committed member of NASW, I am honored to continue supporting the advancement of our social work  profession through ethical leadership, innovation, and inclusive practice. I bring experience from serving on the  National Committee on Nominations and Leadership Identification (NCNLI) for NYS Region II, conducting trainings  for the NASW-NYS Chapter, and presenting at the 2024 NASW National Conference on the role of AI in social  work. I come with experience being on a national board, and I have an extensive background from New York City  in school social work practice, teaching in higher education, and leadership & administration that equips me with  the skills necessary for the Secretary role, particularly attention to detail, strong communication, and a commitment  to accountability. I believe in the power of organized board leadership to build sustainable systems that uplift social  workers across New York State. If elected, I will serve with dedication, ensuring board operations reflect the values  and voices of our membership.

Gina M. Corona, LCSW-R, Licensed Social Worker, NYS Office of Mental Health

Biographical Statement

Gina M. Corona, LCSW-R, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 30 years of experience serving children and families with mental health needs. A 1995 graduate of Syracuse University, she has dedicated her career to the Central New York region. Ms. Corona is employed at Hutchings Psychiatric Center, where she successfully advocated for the establishment of the Licensed Clinical Social Worker title, creating a career ladder and increasing salaries for social workers across New York State. In addition to her clinical role, she serves as a Public Employees Federation (PEF) Executive Board Member for OMH facilities in Auburn, Syracuse, and Utica. She has also served as PEF Region 4 Coordinator, Chair of the Regional Political Action Committee, and Recording Secretary for the Greater Syracuse Labor Council. Ms. Corona is the current NASW Central Division Director, a member of the NASW-NYS Board, and an active member of the NASW AGR Committee. She resides in Syracuse, New York.

Platform Statement

As a member of NASW leadership, I have been excited and proud to advocate for increases of social work salaries  and maintaining the integrity of the profession. As a social worker of 30 years, I have seen the evolution and those  who have tried to erode the profession that I have loved for years. As a member of the board, I have an opportunity to ensure that my members continue to have a voice and are heard. As a member of the AGR committee, I have been able to advocate for and oppose legislation that could help and also would hurt our profession. The chapter is amidst significant change with the merger, and I feel that I can bring strong leadership, knowledge, and passion to both this transition and representing our profession.

Dawn Shedrick, LCSW, Founder & CEO, JenTex Training & Consulting

Biographical Statement

I am grateful to have worked in the social work field for almost 30 years across most areas of practice. From case management to community organizing to mental health practice to supervision and executive practice, I have gained and refined the core social work skills. I founded JenTex Training & Consulting in 2013 to create and offer dynamic, innovative continuing education and learning experiences for social workers and allied professionals. I have taught undergraduate and graduate social work students at St. Joseph's University (NY), Adelphi University, Fordham University, and Columbia University, where I was an inaugural recipient of the Steven P. Schinke Award for  Teaching Innovation. In addition to NASW, I’m also a member of the American Association for Adult and  Continuing Education, Organization Development Network, Qualitative Research Consultants Association, and  the Learning Guild. I am the current NASW NYS/NYC Suffolk Division Director as of December 2023.

Platform Statement

I was appointed to the Suffolk Division Director position in December 2023 after noticing a lapse in programming in  Suffolk County. My goal was to build and nurture a solid Steering Committee to build up our membership and  community engagement. The Steering Committee now consists of social work students, educators, and  professionals. We have built relationships with the local social work schools; hosted CE workshops and  professional development workshops, co-founded a social work panel discussion with St. Joseph's University, and  nurtured relationships with community organizations and county government officials (including the Deputy County Executive for Health and Human Services and the Suffolk DSS Commissioner- both social workers). Our mission  is to nurture a thriving social work community in Suffolk County. Our programming comes from direct feedback  from social workers who live and work in Suffolk County. I am committed to continuing to lead us in actualizing our  mission as the Division Director.

Ramon Ruiz, CASAC-T , LMSW-LP, Intake Coordinator and Counselor, Hetrick Martin  Institute

Biographical Statement

Ramón Ruiz is a first-generation Puerto Rican born and raised in the Bronx, NY. He graduated with his BSW from Lehman College and continued his studies with his MSW  from Columbia University School of Social Work, specializing in policy practice. Ramón  focuses on mental health, LGBTQIA+ issues, and macro policy. Currently, he serves as a  member of the LGBTQIA+ Policy Task Force Committee at the Bronx Borough President’s  Office, an Advisory Council Member for the Justice and Advocacy Alliance at Bronx Community College, and as Intake Coordinator and Counselor at the Hetrick Martin

Institute. Additionally, he is an active participant in the CSSW Action Lab for Social Justice  at Columbia University. In 2024, Ramon founded Prism Pathways Consulting LLC, an LGBTQIA+ business that  focuses on LGBTQIA+ specific workshops, sensitivity and inclusion training, capacity building, and program  development, he hopes to work with individuals from all sectors and help organizations create more affirming,  inclusive, and safe spaces.

Platform Statement

For me, social work is more than a profession — it is a lifelong commitment to healing, justice, and hope. Joining  the National Association of Social Workers is an extension of my deepest values: standing with the vulnerable,  fighting for dignity, and believing in the resilience of every human being. I carry the stories, struggles, and dreams  of the communities I serve with me every day. Through my commitment to NASW, I promise to honor these voices,  to lead with compassion and integrity, and to never stop striving for a world where equity and kindness are not  exceptions, but expectations. This work is my heart’s work, and I am honored to walk this path.

Lynda M. Battaglia, LCSW, Director of Mental Health & Community Services, Genesee  County

Biographical Statement

I bring with me 25 years of experience consisting of direct clinical experience,  administrative  leadership, mentoring, education & training and field work. Currently, I am the Director of MH &  Community Services for Genesee County. I am responsible for the implementation of services  for the mental hygiene system within the county. Additionally, I bring experience in forensic  social work, suicide prevention & education, organizational restructure, crisis response, and

local governmental & state experience. I conduct Next of Kin Interviews for the Genesee County Opioid and  Suicide Fatality Review Board. I am a certified instructor for DCJS, adjunct faculty for SUNY UB and I am part of a  small private practice specializing in treatment for law enforcement, first responders, spouses & MH professionals. I received the Excellence in Education award from AFSP in 2015. In August 2025, I will be attending a Master  Trainer program for Behavioral Threat Assessment through Homeland Security.

Platform Statement

As a potential candidate for the Western Region Director, I believe everyone's voice is important and should be  heard. As social workers, we can be agents of change individually to make an impact on a smaller system.  Collectively, however, we have the potential to strengthen our regional representation and make an impact for  change on a larger scale. I will be the kind of director that will lead by example, being present for meetings and  meeting the needs of the chapter members. I will be dedicated to the Western Region.

Rachel Suskewicz, LCSW, Self Employed, Private Practice

Biographical Statement

I am a generalist clinician with a focus in attachment/trauma and a psychodynamic orientation, while  at the same time incorporating mindfulness/ACT into my work with individual adults in a private  practice setting. I have a background in addictions, working with the homeless and individuals with  HIV/AIDS. I particularly enjoy working with people in the creative sector/arts, and incorporating  elements of feminist principles into my work.

Platform Statement

After many years of working in a private practice setting, I feel the call to re-engage in the more civic realm of  social work. As a student, I was very involved in community building activities, especially those with a social justice  bent, but over the years, this kind of work has become less central in my day-to-day life. I hope that a position as  Brooklyn Division Director with the NASW-NY Chapter will be an opportunity for me to become reinvolved, in a  more hands-on fashion, with the work that I once deeply enjoyed as a person called to the field of human services.

Helen Khealie, Case Manager, Vibrant Emotional Health - Bronx  Adolescent Skills Center, MSW Student Graduating June 2025, Touro University

Biographical Statement

I was born and raised in the Bronx, so I understand the needs of the community. I currently work at the Bronx Adolescent Skills Center serving clients aged 16-24 with their socioemotional, educational, and vocational goals. I've identified gaps in support systems for families in the community and believe that education and advocacy through supportive services can solidify community connections. I'm graduating from Touro University with my  Master's in Social Work in June 2025 where my passion for mezzo and macro work was reignited. I look forward to supporting my community through advocacy at work on a community and policy level.

Platform Statement

My commitment to my community is rooted in the ethical standards set by the NASW Code of Ethics. I'm  graduating from Touro University with my Master's in Social Work in June 2025, and I look forward to  serving my community through education and advocacy.

Govindi Singh, MSW, PhD(c), Faculty Lecturer; CUNY - LaGuardia Community College (Undergraduate students), Yeshiva University (MSW Graduate students) 

Biographical Statement

I am a faculty member at CUNY and Yeshiva University, where I teach courses in  social justice, legal reform, social work history, and trauma-informed practice. My research focuses on advancing the legal recognition of psychological and verbal abuse, particularly coercive control within U.S. domestic violence laws. I recently completed a   proposal with CUNY, Empowering Women in Leadership: Fostering Growth and Equity  in the Profession, which supports leadership pathways for women. I completed a seminar with the Hudson Valley  District, one of the ten regional divisions of the New York Physical Therapy Association (APTA New York), focused  on promoting interdisciplinary engagement through Motivational Interviewing skills for healthcare professionals. I  am deeply committed to mentoring future social workers and advancing justice through education, policy, and  professional leadership.

Platform Statement

I am deeply committed to advancing the NASW mission by promoting social justice and advocating for the rights  and well-being of all individuals, particularly survivors of domestic violence. With extensive experience in social  work, I have gained a profound understanding of the challenges our profession faces and the critical need for  ethical, client-centered practice. My dedication to empowering social workers drives my passion for enhancing  professional development, championing equity, and advocating for changes in the legality of policies and laws that  impact vulnerable communities. If elected, I will work to expand resources for our members, elevate our collective  voice in policy discussions, and build a more inclusive, supportive network of social workers. Together, we will  create a lasting, meaningful impact, support survivors of domestic violence, and transform the legal and social landscape for the better.

Riquelmy Lamour, LCSW, Director of Behavioral Health & Social Work, SOMOS Community Care; Adjunct Professor of Sociology, University of Mount Saint Vincent;   Unaccompanied Minors Program - Psychotherapist Consultant & Evaluator, Catholic  Charities

Biographical Statement

Riquelmy Lamour, LCSW, is the Director of Behavioral Health & Social Work at SOMOS        Community Care, where she leads behavioral health integration across primary care practices serving underserved communities in New York City. She also maintains a private psychotherapy practice focused on trauma and grief and serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Mount Saint Vincent. Riquelmy provides clinical supervision, facilitates trauma-informed workshops for providers and college programs, and conducts psychological evaluations for unaccompanied minors seeking asylum. She has presented on culturally responsive mental health care at conferences, including New York Encounter, the Connect Summit by Findhelp, and the Somos Puerto Rico Legislative Conference. An NASW member, she was named the 2025 NASW-NYS & NYC Social Worker of the Year. Riquelmy is committed to workforce development, health  equity, and community engagement that centers the lived experiences of marginalized populations.

Platform Statement

I am honored to run for Division Director to help build a stronger, more inclusive NASW-NY that reflects the full  diversity of our profession. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, educator, and behavioral health leader, I bring  over 15 years of experience in direct practice, program development, and community-based advocacy. I am a  proud NASW member and remain committed to supporting our workforce through mentorship, culturally  responsive training, and systems-level collaboration. In this role, I will work to increase member engagement,  expand professional development opportunities, and elevate regional voices in statewide conversations. I believe  our collective power lies in the wisdom of our members—and I’m committed to creating space where that wisdom  informs policy, practice, and progress. I would be proud to represent our region and help move our association and  our profession forward with purpose, equity, and integrity.

Andres Goris, LCSW, Private Practice

Biographical Statement

My past experience is working as a clinical social worker for NYS OMH for 30 years. During six  of those years, I served as a supervisor to an outpatient clinic. I have had a part-time private  practice for the past 15 years. which has enhanced my administrative skills.

Platform Statement

I have been a NASW member for many years. Being a member of NASW has enhanced my  professional and personal life. I served in the NASW Cares Mentors Program from November 2023 to May 2024, and have been a NASW NYC Chapter Member-at-Large since June 2023. I also had the opportunity to participate in the Transitional Team of the unification of the NYC & NYS chapters. My aim is to continue to contribute in any way possible to the organization and its members.

Justyna Rzewinski, LCSW, Private Practice Therapist, Justyna Rzewinski, LCSW Private  Practice; Social Justice Advocate, Social Workers & Allies Against Solitary Confinement

Biographical Statement

Justyna is a PhD candidate at Yeshiva University’s Wurzweiler School of Social Work and a  licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. She has led clinical teams  in correctional health, outpatient treatment, and reentry programs, including as Clinical  Director at Revcore Recovery Center and in a supervised release program in NYC. Her  work focuses on justice-involved populations, sex offender treatment, and pretrial

alternatives. Justyna is also an educator at John Jay College and Yeshiva University, where she teaches social  work and forensic psychology. Her research examines service providers’ knowledge of voting rights for justice impacted individuals. She actively organizes voter registration drives and advocates for policy reform in mental  health and criminal justice. As the Rikers Island Whistleblower, she courageously exposed inhumane treatment of  incarcerated individuals with mental illness, prompting a formal investigation. Her leadership reflects a deep  commitment to equity, social justice, and transforming systems that marginalize vulnerable populations

Platform Statement

I am honored to be considered for the role of Division Director. As a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and  advocate with over a decade of experience, I bring a deep commitment to advancing social justice and ethical  practice. My work has centered on supporting justice-involved individuals, leading clinical programs in correctional  and community settings, and advocating for policy reform. As an educator and researcher, I focus on empowering  disenfranchised communities through civic engagement and systems change. I am passionate about NASW’s  mission and have long valued the Association’s role in shaping policy, setting professional standards, and uplifting  our field. If elected, I will work to amplify the voices of frontline social workers, promote equity-driven policies, and  strengthen the profession’s impact on the criminal legal system and beyond. I welcome the opportunity to  contribute my experience, leadership, and advocacy to NASW’s ongoing work.

Gianna Rodriguez, Clinical Case Coordinator, Tunnel To Towers Foundation; MSW Student Graduating June 2025, Touro University

Biographical Statement

I am affiliated with the Association for Play Therapy, the Veterans Mental Health Coalition, and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), reflecting my commitment to professional development and holistic, trauma-informed care. I currently serve as a Clinical Case Coordinator for a national Homeless Veteran Program, where I  connect veterans with stable housing, mental health services, substance use treatment,  and transitional support services. Through evidence-based, strengths-focused approaches, I support clients in overcoming complex barriers to stability and independence. In addition to my case coordination work, I am a practicing therapist under LCSW supervision, providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and families. I am trained in play therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care, and am actively advancing my clinical expertise in trauma therapy to better serve individuals impacted by adversity.

Platform Statement

I am a committed NASW member with a passion for advancing the social work profession through innovation and  inclusive leadership. With more than ten years of experience in human services, my work has focused on  delivering trauma-informed, client-centered care across a range of underserved communities. I am deeply  passionate about advocating for equitable access to care and humanizing the experiences of marginalized  communities. My mission is to bridge the gap between Staten Islanders and the vital resources they deserve,  ensuring every individual—regardless of background—has access to compassionate, culturally competent, and  high-quality support. I believe in building systems that uplift, not overlook, and in creating pathways to care that  reflect the dignity and diversity of our borough. I’m equipped and dedicated to support high standards in social  work. I bring a collaborative, forward-thinking approach to the Staten Island Division Director role.

Gabriela Amara Lis, MSW Student, Columbia School of Social Work

Biographical Statement

Gabriela Amaral Lis is a Master’s student at Columbia University’s School of Social Work, with  a focus on serving marginalized communities. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies from Stony Brook University, where she graduated with honors and  was recognized on the Dean’s List. She is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the Phi Alpha  Honor Society, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Since 2017, Gabriela has  worked at a psychiatric office and is a trained, certified administrator of the ADOS-2, the gold standard for autism assessment, conducting evaluations in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. She has also  volunteered as a translator at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. Gabriela presented at the 2025 BPD  Conference and was selected to present at the National Organization of Forensic Social Work (NOFSW)  Conference. Gabriela was nominated for Student of the Year in 2025 by the NASW-NY State Council.

Platform Statement

As a member of NASW, I am committed to deepening my understanding of the structures that shape social work  education and identifying ways to advocate for immigrant and marginalized communities in alignment with the  NASW Code of Ethics and the principles of human rights. My commitment goes beyond my foundation in  immigrant rights as it has been rooted in my own lived experience as an immigrant. It is also guided by anti-racist  and anti-oppressive practices. I am dedicated to contributing to NASW-NY Chapter's mission of promoting equity  and excellence in social work education. My goal is to engage in policy advocacy, participate in strategic  discussions, and strengthen my leadership skills while building a meaningful network with mentors and  professionals who have shown me the importance of active engagement in creating bridges for marginalized  communities especially for people of color, who are disproportionately affected by systemic barriers.

Natalie Knapp, CTRS, MSW Student, Carlow University; Recreation Therapist,the Center for Discovery

Biographical Statement

Natalie Knapp is an MSW/MBA candidate at Carlow University and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). She currently works as a Recreation Therapist at the Center for Discovery. Natalie brings years of experience in program development, inclusive recreation, and behavioral health. She will be interning this summer at It’s a Girl Thing, a therapy practice in Montgomery, NY. A former Nebraska-Iowa District Governor for Circle K International and Panhellenic Council  Risk Management Director, Natalie is passionate about student leadership, advocacy, and community-based  programming. Her background in social media and administrative coordination equips her to effectively  communicate and connect with MSW students statewide. Natalie is a member of NASW-NY and is committed to  its mission of advancing the social work profession through advocacy, education, and equity-driven service.

Platform Statement

As an MSW student and emerging professional, I am deeply committed to creating spaces for MSW students to be heard, supported, and empowered. I am running for NASW-NY MSW Representative to be a bridge between students and the broader profession, advocating for our needs, promoting inclusive opportunities, and fostering statewide connections. I believe our experiences as students are central to shaping the future of social work, and I aim to amplify those voices on the Board. With my background in leadership, social media, and program  coordination, I will bring both innovation and accountability to this role. My goal is to foster engagement,  transparency, and community among MSW students across New York. I’m excited about the opportunity to serve  and contribute to the mission of NASW-NYS through advocacy, communication, and collaborative leadership.