Two LPS employees win school social work award

The School Social Work Association of Nebraska has honored two Lincoln Public Schools employees with its Friend of School Social Work award.

Director of Student Services Russ Uhing and Supervisor of Counseling and School Social Work Brenda Leggiadro learned of the award in a surprise announcement Tuesday afternoon at LPS District Office. 

The award honors a professional or volunteer in Nebraska who has made a significant impact supporting the field of school social work, specifically in the areas of family children’s services, education, community support/outreach and advocacy.

Uhing and Leggiadro both praised the Lincoln Public Schools school social workers and credited them for the award.

“As mental health experts, school social workers are tireless advocates for students and their families as they connect school, family, and community to ensure student success. This year in particular, their collaboration with others at school and in the community is helping to provide stability and bring hope to students and families who are facing extraordinary challenges brought on by the pandemic,” she said. “We value and appreciate our school social workers and are proud to be considered ‘Friends of School Social Work.’ We also are fortunate to live in a community with a board of education that understands the important contribution of mental health to academic success.”

“I am honored to receive this award from the School Social Worker Association of Nebraska,” Uhing said. “It is a reflection of the impact of our social workers to support our students and families. I am very appreciative of their dedication, skills, and knowledge, especially in the area of mental health.”

They will be formally recognized during a virtual award ceremony on March 5.

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