Deb’s professional background is in social work practice, social welfare history, child welfare, and nonprofits. Her educational background includes a BA from Hope College, MSW from Western Michigan University, and Ph.D. from Michigan State University. Deb is a Professor of Social Work Emerita at Hope College where she recently retired after 33 years of teaching and research. She is grateful for her working relationships, over all these years, with many staff at Bethany Christian Services that resulted from placements as social work interns, participation at BCS conferences/workshops, and completion of global training, program evaluations, and research projects. Deb is looking forward to interacting with staff (some of whom are former students), board members, and stakeholders in her role on the corporate board. She is honored to serve on the corporate board for Bethany Christian Services, an organization that is recognized worldwide for its programs and services that protect, promote, and support vulnerable children and families.