The College of Social Work is pleased to announce the 2022 Alumni of the Year, Bodequia Simon. Currently a Licensed Masters Social Worker, Simon earned a BSW degree in 2017 and an MSW in 2018. A native of Florence, SC, she has a diverse background with experience ranging from child welfare, mental health, hospice and medical social work. She currently serves as the Library Resource Associate for Orangeburg County Library where she provides one-on-one referral and resource assistance to visitors of the library with social needs and collaborates with local agencies to bring community events to the library such as financial Health, mental health first aid and covid vaccine programs.
Simon is also the creator of Black Girls in Social Work, a networking organization of over 24,000 Black women working in and/or pursuing Social Work careers. She designed Black Girls in Social Work's online community and current initiatives that include self-care events across the country, the annual While She Moves Forward Scholarship initiative and the A Dollar and A Vision fundraising campaign that supports social causes. With her platform Simon has cultivated an online space that has led thousands of Black women in the social work field to securing job and internship opportunities, salary increases, exam preparation, career development and mentorship matching.
“Being awarded the Alumni of the Year Award has been the highlight of my career to date. As a student, I had no doubt that the faculty of the College of Social Work would provide me with the needed education to become the social worker that I am today. However, they exceeded my expectations by propelling me forward to becoming a change agent. Being recognized by the professionals that watered me over the years truly affirmed my current career trajectory and I thank the college for the recognition,” said Simon.
The College of Social Work Alumni of the Year award is bestowed upon one graduate who has demonstrated commitment to his or her professional area and dedication to the College. The awardee may serve as the keynote speaker at the College of Social Work's Spring Hooding ceremony or signature alumni event if they so choose. Awardees are chosen by the Office of the Dean in conjunction with the Alumni Development Coordinator.