The recipient of the Canadian Association of Social Workers Distinguished Service Award for 2020 is Michelle Ryan MSW, RSW. This award celebrates her stellar social work leadership.
Michelle holds Bachelor and Master of Social Work degrees from Memorial University. Throughout the past 32 years, she has exemplified the values of the profession maintaining a commitment to clients and working tirelessly to improve the health and social systems in this province.
Currently, Michelle is the Director of Quality, Patient Safety and Risk Management with Eastern Health. Her previous roles have included Manager, Office of Adverse Health Events; Regional Director, Community Children’s Services; Director, Planning and Quality; Provincial Co-ordinator, Services to Children & Youth with Special Needs; Director, Mental Health and Addiction; Director of Social Work; Addictions Coordinator and Child Welfare Worker.
She has been devoted to enhancing the quality of life for individuals, families and communities in each of these positions. Described as a “pragmatic visionary and strategic influencer”, Michelle has an acute understanding of systems and how to affect positive change. She has used her excellent communication and leadership skills to tackle complex challenges in the health care and child welfare systems. As a valued collaborator, colleague and leader, she creates positive work environments while coaching and mentoring emerging leaders.
Additionally, Michelle has actively contributed to the advancement of the social work profession as a field instructor for the MSW and BSW programs, guest lecturer and sessional instructor. She has contributed to the work of NLASW in her roles of past chair of the Quality Assurance and Discipline Committees.
Social workers in Newfoundland and Labrador congratulate and extend best wishes to Michelle.