Worden School alumni named Social Work Pioneers by NASW

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has named OLLU alumni Louise Locker (MSW 1974) and Dr. Santos Hernández (MSW 1976) 2024 Social Worker Pioneers.

Among other contributions to the social work field, Locker was recognized for her Elf Louise Christmas Project which she started over 50 years ago. She is renowned mobilizing hundreds of volunteers to provide gifts for more than one million children. Dubbed "Elf Locker" by the Texas media, Locker has continued her community gift-giving and coordinates hundreds of "Santas" to deliver presents to the homes of tens of thousands of children. Since 1969, Elf Louise has delivered gifts to more than 1 million children.

Dr. Hernández is Emeritus Dean and Emeritus Professor at the University of Texas at Arlington. The NASW recognized him for his more than 45 years as a social worker and social work educator. With his career spanning academic appointments with nine universities, two deanships, two lifetime achievement awards, leadership of social work professional organizations, and countless accolades and numerous firsts, Hernández has been an impressive contributor to the field of social work, according to the NASW.

The NASW Social Work Pioneers® program honors members of the social work profession who have contributed to the evolution and enrichment of the profession. The Pioneer Program identifies and recognizes individuals whose unique dedication, commitment, and determination have improved social and human conditions.

In addition to Locker and Hernández, who will be recognized during a special celebration on Oct. 19 in Washington, DC, other OLLU Worden School of Social Service graduates who have been named Social Work Pioneers include Rafael Aguirre (MSW, 1967), Hermila Anzaldua (MSW, 1966), Herman Curiel (MSW, 1962) and Travis Peterson (MSW, 1968).

A comprehensive collection of the stories of all the NASW Social Work Pioneers can be found within the Pioneer Biography Index.