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Edolphus Towns

United States House of Representatives

The Honorable Edolphus Towns, United States Congressman from New York’s 10th Congressional District, is the recipient of the 2012 Chair’s Leadership Award (formerly the Presidential Award). Congressman Towns is being recognized for his lifelong dedication to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and his unparalleled commitment to the social work profession.

During his tenure in the House of Representatives, Congressman Towns has been a champion for underserved populations, especially children and youth. His experience as a social worker has motivated him to improve and to invest in the lives of others. Congressman Towns has provided unwavering support to advance the public healthcare system, to offer more opportunities for minority business development, and to reform public education.

Congressman Towns is always quick to announce his connection to social work and to advocate for programs and policies that will enhance the profession and education of future social workers.His leadership is clear through his sponsorship of legislation, such as the Dorothy I. Height and Whitney M. Young, Jr. Social Work Reinvestment Act and the Increased Student Achievement Through Increased Student Support Act. In 2010 Congressman Towns founded the Congressional Social Work Caucus, bringing together nearly 70 members of the House and Senate to recognize and to promote social workers and social work education. The Caucus has established an arena for social workers to unite and to amplify their voices in the federal policy process.

Congressman Towns earned his MSW from Adelphi University. He is retiring this year after serving New York’s 10th Congressional District—representing Brooklyn—for 3 decades.

Award: Chair’s Leadership Award

Citation: Congressman Towns is being recognized for his lifelong dedication to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and his unparalleled commitment to the social work profession.