Winter 2026
Alumni

2025 Alumni Awards

2025 Alumni Award winners

Each year the School of Social Work honors alumni who have made significant contributions to their community. In November, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends came together to celebrate the newest cohort of Alumni Awards recipients.

Congratulations again to our 2025 Alumni Award recipients!

Distinguished Alumni Award

David C. Droppa (MSW ‘67)

Professor of Social Work & Director, Social Work Program, Seton Hill University, Greensburg, PA.

Distinguished Alumni Award

Jonathan B. Singer (PhD ‘09)

Professor of Social Work, Loyola University Chicago

Advancing Excellence Award

Aerion Abney (MSW ’12) 

Pennsylvania State Representative, 19th District

Advancing Excellence Award

Anitra J. Green (MSW ‘99)

Founder and Owner, Taylormade Behavioral Health Solutions

School of Social Work Service Award

LeeAnn Guido (MSW ‘03)

School Social Worker, Shaler Area School District

School of Social Work Service Award

Linda E. Lese (MSW ‘84)

Rehabilitation Expert/Discharge Plan Manager, UPMC Rehabilitation Institute

Rising Star Award

Molly Updegrove (MSW ‘21)

Director of Operations/Deputy Director of Programs, ReImagine Appalachia

Do you know a Pitt Social Work alum who is making an impact in the field at a local, regional, national, or international level? Click here to learn more about categories and nominate an alum for the 2026 Awards.