Past Features

April 25, 2005 (Vol. 1, No. 7)

Campus Helps Support Proposal for Social Work Stamp

Commemorative stamps have been issued for more than a century, portraying notable individuals and events as well as many other aspects of the American experience, including the nation's varied species of birds, animals and flowers. For more than 10 years, Lehman Professor Graciela Castex has been working to add the social work profession to that list.

This semester, the Lehman community joined in the effort. Students staffed a petition table in front of the College bookstore on April 12 and collected over 300 signatures in support of the request.

"A commemorative stamp is a wonderful opportunity to show support for the social work profession," says Professor Castex, and to "get the word out" about the contribution and dedication of social workers both today and within the context of American history.

The public suggests almost all subjects chosen to appear on U.S. stamps and postal stationery. Established in 1957, the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee evaluates thousands of proposals every year. The Committee, appointed by the Postmaster General, works within a set of guidelines to recommend subjects that are both interesting and educational.

A member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Professor Castex is working with the Association to spread the word on her proposal. NASW has created a sample letter that members and others can print out and send to the Advisory Committee. (To view the letter, visit www.socialworkers.org.)

"It was a good turnout," Professor Castex says of the recent petition drive. "I'm confident that with the support of the NASW and other social work organizations across the nation, we will have our stamp."

Professor Castex has taught in the College's social work program for almost 10 years. In 1999, she received Lehman's Excellence in Teaching Award.