Rayanna Tensley, MSW Alumna Receives Outstanding Recent Graduate Award

Congratulations to Rayanna Tensley, a graduate of the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Eastern, who received the Outstanding Recent Graduate Award from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) WA Chapter! Rayanna was recognized in March during Social Work Month.  The NASW Chapter Update letter states that, “This year’s Social Work Month theme is “Social Work Breaks Barriers.” The Chapter reviewed award nominations and selected the award winners who have demonstrated contributions to social work in Washington and exemplified social work values.”

Rayanna shared her perspective on the social work field during her acceptance speech at the March 31st virtual event celebration:

I found that as social service providers we have a responsibility of advocacy not only for our participants, but for ourselves. And I’ve also found I don’t mind getting into a debate every once in awhile. I am pleased to be a part of such an amazing community of people doing great work and taking a whole month to celebrate ourselves and those around us.

Thank you to the directors at Eastern’s School of Social Work for admitting me. Thanks to my professors, cohort and group members, now colleagues. I am grateful I was able to learn from you and humbled that I will continue to do so. And thank you to everyone in my personal life for putting up with me bringing my laptop everywhere.

Congratulations Rayanna!