For Immediate Release Share This News Release
9/10/2015

Foundation Exec. Director Named Social Worker of the Year

The National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers (NAPRHSW) has named Dr. Sylvia Diaz, executive director of the Suffolk Community College Foundation, as its Social Worker of The Year. Diaz was informed of the award in an August 19 letter from Ruth Negron Gaines, president of NAPRHSW.

Gaines lauded Diaz in her award letter, saying, “The Association’s Social Worker of the Year Award is an award given to a social worker professional who has demonstrated commendable social work practice and involvement with other professional, civic, and community organizations. You exemplify the best of the profession’s values and achievements through specific accomplishments. You demonstrate exceptional qualities that make you stand out beyond the expectations of your profession.”

“This recognition is an honor. My life has always been about giving back what was so freely given to me and watching people’s lives transformed. It’s what my colleagues and I are lucky enough to do every day,” said Diaz who lives in Smithtown.

Diaz will be presented with the award at the Annual Hispanic Culture and Heritage Brunch Celebration at the Brentwood Country Club on November 7.

The Suffolk Community College Foundation is a non-profit corporation that raises money to enable the college to provide student scholarships,  minority scholarships, honors scholarships, and awards based on financial need and academic merit.

The Foundation also funds emergency student loans, special projects for professional staff development, support for unique academic enrichment programs, and efforts to enhance the community's awareness of the college and its services.

Last year the Foundation distributed more than $650,000  in scholarships and student aid.