Bridges is the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work alumni magazine. We selected the name Bridges largely because of its symbolism. The term provides an important metaphor for both our profession and our school. Social work is a profession that has, as part of its mission, the goal of building and sustaining bridges among individuals, families, groups, neighborhoods, and communities, and we felt that the title Bridges captured this part of our professional mission. At the same time, the city of Pittsburgh has more than 450 bridges, and Allegheny County has almost 2,000, suggesting an uncompromising desire of the city’s inhabitants to remain connected with one another. In keeping with this heritage, it is the school’s goal to sustain and build bridges among those needing social work services; our students, alumni, faculty, and staff; the community; and corporate and governmental partners. We believe that the information in this magazine is an important way to achieve this goal. 

BRIDGES MAGAZINE CREATIVE TEAM 

School of Social Work 

Editor: Elizabeth M.Z. “Betsy” Farmer, Dean 

Assistant Editor:  Riley Belden-England

Director of Communications: Shannon Murphy 

Director of Development: Katy Gallmeyer

Office of University Communications and Marketing 

Assistant Creative Director: Jane Dudley 

Marketing Manager: Marygrace Reder 

Editorial Associate: Sarah Jordan Rosenson 

Production Manager: Chris Markle 

Writer: Tory N. Parrish

Bridges magazine is published annually and is sent to alumni of the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work. 

Some photos in this publication were taken prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and do not necessarily reflect current health and safety guidelines.