Syracuse Sun

Syracuse University's School of Social Work recently honored Jim Stone for his dedication to the annual Legislative Policy Day event. Stone, a distinguished social worker and member of the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics Advisory Board, reflected on his career journey that began at the Hillbrook Juvenile Detention Center, leading him to choose social work over teaching, much to the surprise of his parents who were educators.

Stone's impactful career spanned various roles in the juvenile justice and mental health sectors, culminating in his tenure as New York State’s Commissioner of Mental Health. Despite the unexpected turns in his professional path, Stone expressed gratitude for the opportunities social work provided him. He highlighted, "The marvelous thing about social work personally is that it gave me fabulous opportunities."

Stone's commitment to the School of Social Work was recognized as he was named an Emeritus Board Member after over 30 years of service. Falk College Assistant Dean for Advancement, Megan Myers, praised Stone, stating, "There is no one more deserving of emeritus board member recognition than Jim Stone, and we are forever grateful for his service."

The Legislative Policy Day, a significant event supported by Stone, provides students with a platform to engage with leaders shaping social policies. Stone emphasized the importance of the event in offering students a practical perspective on legislative processes and connections. Reflecting on this year's event focusing on "Social Security Across Generations," Stone underscored the value of students gaining insights into real-life policy involvement.

As Stone and retiring School of Social Work Professor Eric Kingson prepare to continue supporting future Legislative Policy Days, they remain optimistic about the profession's future. Stone emphasized the essential role of social work in providing support, especially during challenging times. He expressed confidence in the profession's ability to uphold social and economic justice in an ever-evolving world.

The School of Social Work's commitment to excellence has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report, ranking it among the "Best Schools of Social Work" in the country. As Stone and Kingson look ahead, their dedication to nurturing the next generation of social workers remains unwavering.