April 15, 2005 – Donna Parish

SFA School of Social Work Hosts Conferences April 22, 23

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The SFA School of Social Work will host a pre-conference titled "Unlikely Moments Last a Lifetime" from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 22, and its eighth annual foster and adoptive training conference from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 23. Both conferences will be held on the second floor of the University Center on the SFA campus.

The pre-conference will feature speakers Rebekah McKay-Gordon, former foster child, foster parent and child advocate; Dr. Bruce McNellie, who has more than 30 years of experience in CPS supervision and administration; Julie O'Brien, CPS recruitment supervisor with more than 18 years of experience; and Kim West, statewide master PRIDE trainer with more than 14 years of CPS experience.

Sessions will focus on foster care, ethics in leadership and accurate assessment.

The cost for the pre-conference is $60 for professionals and $20 for foster and adoptive parents, students and faculty. Pre-registration and more information can be obtained by calling Betty Moseby at (936) 569-5302.

"Building Strong Foundations Together" is the focus of this year's foster and adoptive training conference with keynote speaker McKay-Gordon. Workshops will include several topics ranging from Cultural Competence: Foster Parenting Skills to Mental Health Issues: Children and Families.

Cost for the conference is $85 for professionals and $60 for foster and adoptive parents, students and faculty. Pre-register and acquire more information by calling Angelina College at (936) 633-5206.

Continuing education units are available for professionals attending the pre-conference and/or conference.