Several months ago, I had an idea for an issue of Connections that could speak to social workers who are new to psychosocial oncology. I felt compelled to support our colleagues who consider themselves part of this group, but I couldn’t quite pinpoint why. Fortunately, the Connections team was on board, and Katherine worked with me to further develop the idea. And now, as we’re publishing this issue, I feel deep joy and gratitude to share it with all of you.
The theme of this issue is “The Evolving Oncology Social Worker.” Several of our colleagues have written reflective articles about their career paths in the field. The issue also includes some AOSW news, an announcement from the Connections team, and a book review.
First, our team would like to welcome Meredith Cammarata, LCSW-R, to the role of AOSW President. We’re excited to share Meredith’s inspiring and thoughtful message about the opportunities we have as oncology social workers at this moment in time. We’d also like to welcome Sophia Tsesmelis Piccolino, DSW, LCSW, OSW-C, to the role of Education Director, who shares an update on behalf of the Education Committee about some of this year’s upcoming initiatives. Additionally, Amy DePaolo, MS, LCSW, OSW-C, has news and updates regarding the State Representatives. In alignment with our theme, the Advocacy Committee, which is led by Karen Costello, MSS, LSW, OSW-C, outlines how we can all become advocates for patients and the profession. Kristine Naputo, LCSW, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director, writes about how the oncology field is evolving from the DEI perspective.
To further explore our theme, Adrianna Burgos Torres, LMSW, writes about how she has seamlessly integrated various practices, training, and professional experiences to support her oncology social work practice. Devon Ciampa, DSW, LCSW-C, and Laura Moynihan, LICSW, OSW-C, offer insights into how clinical social workers can make meaningful contributions to research. Matthew Floriani, LCSW, OSW-C, ACM-SW, considers how he has grown into a leadership role while sharing practical advice that will help you if you’re interested in a similar path. Briana Joyce, LCSW, OSW-C, writes about how she has evolved into her current role as a social work clinical quality specialist. Wendy Veirup, MSW, LCSW, ACM, reflects on how her professional path has come full circle with personal experience. Rochelle Woods, LMSW, CCM, shares how the skills she’s learned throughout her career continue to carry her through it. Alicia Wlodynski, LCSW, APHSW-C, discusses how her involvement with AOSW is broadening her career in oncology social work. I’m excited to share that Alicia recently joined the Connections team, so be sure to check out the Kudos Column announcement and some member accomplishments that we’ve been asked to highlight.
Last, but far from least, Jennifer Murray, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, writes a lovely book review on “Superheroes vs. Cancer: A gentle guide to help kids understand cancer, its treatments, and what they can do when someone is sick,” which is a supportive resource for children and parents experiencing cancer in their families.
Before I conclude this message, I’d like to welcome CaTecia Godbee, LCSW, to the role of Membership Director and Katie Tremel, MSW, LCSW, as the Director-at-Large of the Special Interest Groups (SIGs). I’d also like to say thank you to the current and former board members and the AOSW committees. And, Connections wouldn’t be what it is without my team and the members who volunteer their time to share insights with us. Thank you to those who contributed in 2025 (list in alphabetical order):
- Kiersten Anderson, MSW, LICSW
- Casey Auer, MSSW, CAPSW
- Christina Austin-Valere, PhD, LCSW
- Alexandra Berkovits, LCSW, OSW-C
- Jennifer Bires, LCSW, OSW-C, CST
- Megan Cannone, LCSW, OSW-C, OPN-CG
- Lisa Caparella, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSW
- Debbie Carey, DSW, CSW, OSW-C
- Karen Costello, MSS, LSW, OSW-C
- Amy DePaolo, MS, LCSW, OSW-C
- Jennifer Dimond, LCSW, OSW-C
- Katherine Easton, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
- Erica Fortune, PhD
- Carrie Vestal Gilman, LCSW
- Brittany Hahn, LCSW
- Kelly Hendershot, LGSW, LMSW
- Catherine Lili Kiang, LMSW
- Chelsea Kroll, MSW, LMSW, OSW-C
- Linda Mathew, DSW, MSW, LCSW-R
- Nicole Marcouiller, LICSW, OSW-C
- Angela McCasland, LCSW, OSW-C
- Kristine Naptuto, LCSW
- Lisa Pegrave-Nelson, LMSW, OSW-C
- Karen Ridley, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
- Nicole Normandin Rueda, LMSW
- Laura Tanner, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
- Moriah Thibodeau, LCSW, LICSW, OSW-C, APHSW-C
- Sophia Tsesmelisa Piccolino, DSW, LCSW, OSW-C
- Alicia Wlodynski, LCSW, APHSW-C
As I reflect on why I wanted to publish an issue on this theme, I believe I hoped for something that would inspire all of us in our work, no matter where we are in our careers. I think we ended up with just that. I know my career path has taken unexpected turns, but regardless of where I am now, I remain passionate about lifting each other up and giving people a space to share their voices. I’m proud that we’re able to do that through Connections. I truly hope each of you finds something that resonates with you in this issue. And, if you do, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the author who wrote the message that you needed to hear. I know it will be greatly appreciated.
If you have any ideas, questions, or feedback about Connections, please also feel free to reach out to me anytime.
