Friday, February 10, 2017

James “McKay” Glasgow is the recipient of the National Association of Social Workers North Carolina Chapter Presidents’ Award. The organization promotes, develops and protects the practice of social work and social workers through its work and advocacy.

“Mr. Glasgow exhibits a dedication to the social work profession through his community involvement, proven leadership and academic achievement. The NASW-NC Presidents’ Award honors his exceptional leadership,” the award letter read.

Glasgow is currently enrolled in UNCW’s Master of Social Work program. During his graduate career, he has served as the UNCW/NASW-NC student liaison and served as a board member for the NC Farmworker Health Program.

“UNCW's M.S.W. program is a wonderful place to grow as a student and leader,” he said. He credits his parents for instilling compassion in him from a young age.

Before enrolling at UNCW, Glasgow worked as an outreach coordinator with a state health program, connecting migrant farm workers with health resources. He wrote grants, supervised and acted as an interpreter for those who were experiencing poverty, marginalization and persecution.

He also served as a bilingual gang outreach program coordinator, facilitating a task force of police, lawyers, government workers and social service groups to keep youth from joining gangs. It was this experience that prompted him to pursue an M.S.W. and become a licensed clinical social worker.

Peter Nguyen, coordinator of the UNCW M.S.W. program, notes that Glasgow “has both the intellectual and emotional hallmarks of a great social worker and leader.”

The excellence, integrity and commitment to community engagement Glasgow is being honored for personify ideals outlined in UNCW’s Strategic Plan. He will be formally honored at the 2017 NASW-NC Ethics Conference and Awards Luncheon on March 24 in Raleigh.

-- Caroline Cropp

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