Executive Director Update

Harold Pliszka is exiting the position of Executive Director on July 22, 2024. Harold was The Social Workers Association of Alberta’s first executive director, and SWAA’s board of directors would like to thank him for his efforts in operationalizing our professional association.

Harold started work in December 2022 and SWAA welcomed our first social work members in April 2023. With the help of the board, and Member Engagement Coordinator, Kiara Hugh-Yeun, Harold guided SWAA’s membership numbers to 1037 in July 2024. Harold provided oversight to the operational infrastructure, expanded relationships with social workers, partner organizations and learning institutions. He supported our first annual general meeting, initiated a complement of member benefits, and the implementation of SWAA’s professional development program.

We have begun our search for a new executive director and Harold has agreed to stay on in the capacity of consultant, helping with the AGM preparations and operational transitions until the end of September 2024.

“SWAA is an important organization for Alberta social workers. It was an honour to serve as SWAA’s first Executive Director, and I will remain an association member for years to come. I look forward to seeing where a new executive director will take our professional association as it enters this next phase of development -- providing additional value to social workers in Alberta,” Harold says.

Please join us thanking Harold for his contributions as we wish him well in this next chapter.

If you have comments or questions about this process, please contact Board President, Rasheal Charles at rashealc@myswaa.ca.