Richard has had a tremendous career in social work, spanning some 46 years. He is held in high regard by both his collogues, clients and agencies he served.
Richard was born in Prince Albert, SK and graduated from Riverside Collegiate in 1964. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Saskatchewan and almost immediately started his social work career as child welfare worker in rural Saskatchewan. After a short stint there, Richard enrolled in the Maritime School of Social Work, Dalhousie University, graduating with a Master of Social degree in 1973.
During his career, Richard filled an impressive variety of roles, including a Child Welfare Worker, Family Services Supervisor, Adoption Coordinator, culminating as the Executive Director of the Family and Youth Services Division of Saskatchewan Social Services.
Upon his retirement from Saskatchewan Social Services in 2002, Richard became the Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers in which capacity he ably served until his retirement in 2013. SASW flourished under his leadership. During that time, the association’s policies, procedures were updated/revamped and its standards or practice were revised to be more in keeping with current professional standards. Of particular mention, is Richard’s work with the Ministry of Social Services to have The Social Workers Act amended to reinstate the ability of social workers to diagnose in Saskatchewan.
During his tenure with SASW, Richard brought a balanced approach to national issues and his opinions were consistently sought and valued by both provincial and national colleagues. Richard’s leadership, within Saskatchewan, and across the country, has influenced in a very positive manner the public profile and the reputation of the social work profession.
SASW recognizes Richard’s instrumental role in the creation and development of the Canadian Council on Social Work Regulators (CCSW) as well as his contribution to social work regulation in general, and specifically his participation as chair of the Resolution & Standards Committee for the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).
Richard is a gem of a social worker. He has served his profession and his community with integrity and skill.