Dr. Patricia Gray, Ed.D., LCSW
President (2026-2028)
President Elect (2025-2026)
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.
Schmika Risher, LMSW, SIFI
Vice President (2026-2028)
I obtained my MSW from the University of South Carolina and I am a driven professional with 24 years of experience in child welfare, mental health, juvenile justice and academia. I am passionate about social justice, diversity, equity and inclusion and my entire career has been working with organizations whose focus is to enhance the well-being of underserved communities.
Dr. Marina Badillo-Diaz, DSW, LCSW, SIFI
Secretary (2025-2027)
Dr. Badillo-Diaz is an experienced school administrator and counseling director with a demonstrated history of working in community mental health and in education as a social worker. Currently, Dr. Badillo-Diaz is a consultant focusing on the training of educators and social workers with MABD Consulting. She is also an adjunct professor and former board member of the National School Social Work Association of America from 2022-24. She is also the author of the blog, "The AI Social Worker", a 21st Century Skills and AI guide for Social Workers. Her areas of interest include 21st-century skills, social-emotional learning programming, school social work practice, education, youth mental health, clinical supervision for social workers, AI Applications, data management, and career development.
Kamilah Pasha
MSW Student Representative (2026-2027)
I am a Bachelor of Social Work student graduating in May with extensive experience in professional leadership, advocacy, and interdisciplinary practice. I am currently serving as the NASW-NY BSW Student Representative and as a USWA Senator on my University's campus, where I represented student voices, contributed to organizational decision making, and strengthened engagement between students and the social work profession. I have participated in multiple professional conferences, developing a strong interest in public speaking with an emphasis on macro frameworks, policy analysis, and systems level advocacy. I am a LEND Fellow and completed a specialized rotation in elder care abuse, gaining interdisciplinary experience addressing risk, ethics, and protection of older adults. I currently work with disabled and elderly individuals, supporting person centered and trauma informed care. I will be entering the Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program at Stony Brook University with hopes to become a Psychiatric Social Worker!
Doreen Davidson
BSW Student Representative (2026-2027)
I am currently a student at Stony Brook University pursuing social welfare, after graduating from Suffolk County Community College with high distinction (Cum Laude). I serve as Director of Outreach and Events Coordinator for the Undergraduate Social Welfare Alliance and am an active member of student organizations including Rotaract Community Service, Astrology/Geology, and Philosophy. I also participate in peer-run support communities such as Bridges of Unity and Non-Traditional Students. My advocacy and community engagement include organizing Take Back the Night events to raise awareness about domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault, for which I received a proclamation from Samuel Gonzalez, Suffolk County Legislator, and the Take Back the Night Award from Suffolk Community College. I am also involved in legislative advocacy supporting organizations such as Autism Speaks, Lupus Foundation of America and the Immune Deficiency Foundation. My volunteer work includes serving as a Girl Scouts troop leader, Cub Scout den leader, and youth cheer coach.
Gina Corona, LCSW-R
Central Division Director (2025-2027)
Gina M Corona, LCSW-R is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of post-Masters experience working with children with mental health issues and their families. A 1995 Graduate of Syracuse University, Ms. Corona has remained predominantly in the Central New York area for most of her career. She is an activist for the delivery of quality care, and an advocate for changes in legislation to address budget shortfalls that impact desperately needed services and programs. Over the last 17 years, Ms. Corona has worked in the local state operated mental health clinic, in both inpatient and outpatient programs where she is a Clinical Social Worker. In her practice, Ms. Corona often encounters families in crisis and in need of supportive services to manage both everyday life as well as safety. In addition to her practice as a mental health professional Social Worker, Ms. Corona serves as the Regional Coordinator for the Public Employees Federation's Region 4, which includes six counties- Cayuga, Cortland, Jefferson, Onondaga, Oswego, and Seneca. The elected leadership position also includes Executive Board Representation, Chair of the Political Action Committee for the Region and serving on other committees. Currently, Ms. Corona lives in Syracuse, NY with her family.
Javita I Nauth, LMSW
Northeast Division Director (2026-2028)
I am a Master's‑prepared social worker with extensive experience across behavioral health, research, youth development, and public service. I currently serve in roles that integrate data‑driven program leadership, compliance oversight, and trauma‑informed practice, with a strong commitment to strengthening systems that support individuals, families, and communities across the Northeast Region. My professional background includes positions at Columbia University, Central New York Psychiatric Center, Four Winds Saratoga, Graham Windham, and NPower, where I have led multidisciplinary teams, developed training initiatives, and advanced culturally responsive, evidence‑based practice. I am an active member of NASW‑NYS and was honored as the 2024 NASW‑NYS Social Worker of the Year for my contributions to equity, advocacy, and community engagement. I maintain strong partnerships with regional providers, educational institutions, and state agencies, and I am committed to elevating the voice of social workers, expanding professional development, and advancing social justice across our region.
Dr. Tenise M. Wall, PhD, LCSW, CASAC-M
Hudson Valley Division Director (2026-2028)
Dr. Tenise M. Wall, PhD, LCSW, CASAC-M, is the Founder/CEO of Dr. Wall's ADHD & Wellness Center, providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, adults. She is an LCSW and Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience across schools, psychiatric and forensic settings, substance use programs, and private practice. Dr. Wall specializes in ADHD/disruptive behavior disorders, anxiety/depression, trauma, grief and loss, substance use treatment, couples counseling, and Christian counseling. Her doctoral research on parental experiences seeking ADHD treatment informs her culturally responsive approach. A published author and international presenter, she is the Orange County Women of Achievement in Education Award winner and has been recognized by local and state leaders for her community impact. Her commitment extends beyond clinical care through service with NASW-NY as the CNLI Hudson Valley Division Representative, advocating for ethical practice and leadership.
Nicole E. Henderson, LMSW
Nassau Division Director (2025-2027)
Nicole E. Henderson is a dedicated social work professional with over two decades of experience spanning clinical practice, policy development, systems-level advocacy, and community leadership. She currently serves as the NASW Nassau Division Director, a middle school social worker, and district mental health coordinator in Roosevelt, NY, as well as maintaining a private psychotherapy practice rooted in holistic, trauma-informed care. Nicole is also an adjunct professor at Long Island University and a sought-after trainer and consultant in areas such as culturally responsive practices, crisis intervention, and SEL implementation. Her career reflects a deep commitment to equity, healing-centered systems, and civic engagement, as evidenced by her leadership roles on the Malverne School District Board of Education and the Lakeview Civic Association. Passionate about uplifting vulnerable communities, Nicole is devoted to building strong, connected networks of social work professionals across Nassau County.
Dawn E. Shedrick, LCSW
Suffolk Division Director (2025-2027)
Dawn E. Shedrick is a clinical social worker, consultant, educator, and writer whose work focuses on the health and wellbeing of family caregivers, trauma survivors, and queer people. She is the founder and principal consultant of JenTex Training & Consulting, a continuing education and professional development firm for health and human services professionals. Dawn weaves her extensive experiences as her mother's primary caregiver since 1996, mental health practitioner, trainer, educator, and holistic healer to create experiences and tools for caregivers to heal from stress and burnout and to help health and human services professionals develop the skills to support them in their healing. She is the author of Courageous Contemplation: A Guided Journal for Family CareGivers of Chronically Ill, Disabled, and Elderly Loved Ones. Dawn has designed and delivered corporate emotional and mental wellness seminars and workshops for clients such as GE, Canon USA, Office Depot, NY Mets, JPMorgan Chase, Columbia University, and the USDA. She has delivered these learning experiences online and in person in China, Tanzania, Canada, Puerto Rico, and throughout the U.S. Dawn is a lecturer at the Columbia University School of Social Work where she was an inaugural recipient of the Steven P. Schinke Teaching Innovation Award. She is a doctoral candidate studying Adult Learning and Leadership at Teachers College- Columbia University. Her participatory action research involves partnering with other caregivers to create tools to support emotional healing. To manage her own caregiver stress, Dawn loves spending time near the ocean, knitting, traveling, watching true crime TV with her two Yorkies, and sharing her stories of caregiving so her peers know they are not alone. As the NASW-NY Suffolk Division Director, Dawn is passionate about building and cultivating community with seasoned social workers, emerging leaders, and students; professional development for social workers in all areas of practice; co-creating and supporting the chapter's policy agenda; and advancing social work entrepreneurship.
Rachel Suskewicz, LCSW
Brooklyn Division Director (2025–2027)
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.
Sarah Santiago, LMSW
Manhattan Division Director (2026-2027)
Sarah Santiago, LMSW, is a social work leader, clinician, and entrepreneur dedicated to advancing equitable, trauma-informed care across New York City. She currently serves as the Director of Supportive Housing in a Non-Profit Organization, where she oversees multiple housing programs supporting young people in achieving stability, independence, and long-term success. In her leadership role, Sarah manages three scattered site programs, strengthens program operations, and ensures compliance with city and state standards while maintaining a strong focus on client-centered, strengths-based practice. In addition to her administrative leadership, Sarah is a practicing therapist, providing individual and couples counseling with a focus on communication, emotional intelligence, and relationship dynamics. Her work is grounded in the belief that when individuals are supported in aligning their thinking, feelings, and communication, they are better positioned to realize their full potential. Sarah is also the founder of Choose You LLC, where she extends her impact as a business owner by supporting women in strengthening their voices, building confidence, and developing intentional communication skills in both personal and professional spaces. Sarah earned her Master of Social Work and is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). She is deeply committed to bridging direct practice and systems-level impact, while also pouring into the growth and development of the social work community through mentorship, leadership, and service.
Justyna Rzewinski, LCSW
Queens Division Director (2025–2027)
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.
Gianna Rodriguez, LMSW
Staten Island Division Director (2025–2027)
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. 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.
Govindi Singh, MSW, PhD(c)
Bronx Division Director (2025–2027)
Dr. Govindi Singh is a dedicated professional with a strong educational background in social work. She graduated from LaGuardia Community College in 1999 with an Associate of Science degree, then earned her Bachelor of Science from Stony Brook University. She went on to complete her Master's in Social Work at Yeshiva University, where her thesis focused on PTSD in adolescents and adults, further deepening her passion for social impact. In 2024, she will continue her journey as a Ph.D. student in Social Work/Social Welfare at Yeshiva University, focusing on advancing the field and advocating for social justice.
Amy Hickey Smith, LCSW
Genesee Valley Division Director (2026-2028)
Amy Hickey-Smith, LCSW is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at Keuka College and a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in New York State. She has held clinical roles in hospital, community mental health, and private practice settings and has extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ communities, trauma survivors, and partners and families. Amy previously served as Founder and Executive Director of The [LGBTQ] Center of the Finger Lakes and is currently President of the Board of Directors for the Hickok Center for Brain Injury. She is an active member of NASW-NY and has served on the Chapter's Diversity & Inclusion Committee since 2020. Her work has been recognized with the Rochester Regional Health Excellence in Social Work Award, and she regularly engages in teaching, public speaking, and professional advocacy.
Jodie Zalewski, LMSW
Westchester Division Director (2026-2027)
Jodie Zalewski, LMSW, spent more than two decades in enterprise organizational transformation, most recently as VP of Operations Strategy and Change Management at Warner Bros. Discovery, where her work spanned the entire arc of organizational life: building teams and departments from startup to scale, and leading enterprise-wide transformation across two major corporate mergers. She earned her Licensed Master Social Worker credential because she wanted to be the kind of leader who could actually meet people in the difficulty of change, not just manage them through it. What mattered most to her was always the human side of it, what change means for the people living through it, in their roles, in their lives, and in who they are becoming.
She holds an MSW, Magna Cum Laude, and a Post-Master's Certificate in Organizational Leadership in Social Work, both from the NYU Silver School of Social Work, with her clinical foundation grounded in a Personalized Recovery-Oriented Services (PROS) program serving adults with severe mental illness in New York City. She is now building directly on that foundation, practicing as a Medical Social Worker in Westchester, where she lives, and building a caseload in private practice. She brings this dual perspective, enterprise leadership, and clinical practice to her work as Division Director, with a commitment to strengthening connections and support within Westchester's social work community.
Mohawk Valley Division Director
Vacant
Western Division Director
Vacant