As a dedicated member of the National Association of Black Social Workers - Chicago chapter, I currently serve on the Executive Board as the Financial Secretary, following my previous role as Student Coordinator. With a fulfilling career at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services spanning over 35 years, I have been committed to ensuring children's safety and well-being, and supporting families in achieving reunification and self-sustainability. Throughout my tenure, I served in various capacities within the Division of Operations, including as a Child Welfare Advanced Specialist and Public Services Administrator for both the Child Protection and Placement units. These roles involved supervising direct services Child Welfare Specialists and contributing to significant projects like Differential Responses. I hold dual Masters degrees in Psychology and Social Work from Chicago State University, along with a Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL). My lifelong goal is to empower others, providing them with the tools they need to lead fulfilling and prosperous lives.

Franann A. Frempong is very excited to serve as Recording Secretary. Born and raised on the infamous southside of Chicago, Franann's upbringing was shaped by experiences of adversity, strong Black culture, and a deep appreciation for African American cuisine. These elements have significantly influenced her journey to becoming a Social Worker and a Food Content Creator. Franann earned her Master's degree from the Jane Addams program at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her specialties are in Older Adult Health, Medical Social Work, and Community Health & Development. These specializations, combined with her passion for the communion that African American cuisine brings about, allow her to build strong, impactful connections with individuals, helping those in the community thrive and bringing awareness to those outside of the community. During her years of membership, Franann has formed both personal and professional relationships within and beyond her local Chicago Chapter. She has attended National Conferences and holds positions on both the Chicago Association of Black Social Workers' Membership Committee and the National Association of Black Social Workers' Membership Committee as one of the Midwest Regional Liaisons. Franann is not only passionate but also dedicated to being a change agent. She embodies the values of NABSW, leveraging collective expertise to strategically develop the capacity of those of the African Diaspora to sustain and flourish.