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Dexter Voisin, dean of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, can add another prestigious title to his distinguished career.

The  (NASWF) has named Voisin a Social Work Pioneer, among the highest honors in the social work profession—awarded to a select few “who have made significant and innovative contributions to human services.”

NASW is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world.

“I am deeply honored to be named a Social Work Pioneer,” said Voisin, who has established himself as a trailblazer pioneer in research, leadership and a career marked by firsts. “This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of my colleagues, students and the entire social work community who inspire me every day. Together, we have made strides in addressing the complex challenges faced by individuals and families in our society. I am grateful for this opportunity to continue our mission of advancing social justice and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.”

Voisin joins esteemed social workers who have “explored new frontiers and built critical infrastructures to support the health and welfare of individuals and families” across diverse communities, according to the NASWF. “His pioneering efforts have paved the way for thousands of social workers to continue advancing the profession and addressing challenges in both urban and rural settings.” 

Voisin, who also recently began a three-year term as president of the  said he plans to focus on “collaborating with other major social work organizations to address the significant shortage of mental-health providers across the country in the presence of growing behavioral health needs, while ensuring the protection of the public good.”

“Dean Voisin's recognition as a Social Work Pioneer highlights his groundbreaking contributions and visionary leadership in the field,” said Provost and Executive Vice President Joy K. Ward. “His work exemplifies the impact we strive for—advancing social justice, inspiring future leaders, and driving meaningful change in communities.”

Recognized among the top 2% of social sciences researchers in the world by Stanford University, Voisin was recently elected to the 2023 class of fellows of the Society for Social Work and Research.

He has also authored more than and generated more than 16 million dollars in external funding. Along the way, Voisin’s work has influenced research, practice and public health policy.

Elevating the impact of the Mandel School, Voisin joins former Mandel School faculty colleagues Darlyne Bailey, Claudia Coulton, Richard Edwards, M.C. “Terry” Hokenstad and John Yankey, all of whom previously inducted as Social Work Pioneers.  

Voisin and 25 other newly minted Pioneers will be celebrated at the NASWF’s 18th Annual Pioneer Program this fall in Washington, D.C. For more information about the Pioneer program and upcoming events, visit .

For more information, contact Colin McEwen at colin.mcewen@case.edu.