NASW Executive Director Receives “Ray of Hope” for Cancer Survivorship Advocacy

Recipients Recognized at National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship Gala

Washington, DC – The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS) has honored Elizabeth Clark, PhD, ACSW, MPH, executive director of the National Association of Social Workers, with the “Ray of Hope” award for her dedication and extraordinary contribution to cancer survivorship, especially for her leadership in developing the Cancer Survival Toolbox ® a self-advocacy training program for cancer survivors. Along with 20 other individuals and groups, NCCS recognized the contributions of their awardees at a gala event on April 26.

“I am honored and humbled to receive the ‘Ray of Hope’ award from NCCS, an organization that I hold in the highest regard,” said Dr. Clark. “My professional dedication to cancer survivorship advocacy has been extremely rewarding to me.”

“Ray of Hope” awards were given to Rep. Lois Capps, Katie Couric, Sam Donaldson, Dr. John Durant, Dr. Harold Freeman, Scott Hamilton, former Sen. Connie Mack III, Pearl Moore, Dr. Fitzhugh Mullan, Queen Noor of Jordan, Dr. Antonia Novello, Rep. Deborah Pryce, Cokie Roberts, Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV, Dr. Julie Rowland, Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf, Lilly Tartikoff and Jessica Turri. Groups recognized were the Institute of Medicine and the Cancer Survival Toolbox ® Team.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Clark has been an advocate, professor, administrator and clinician dedicated to oncology social work and cancer related issues. In 2000, the Cancer Survivor Toolbox ® received the Gold Star Award from the Cancer Patient Education Network of the National Cancer Institute. In 1998, Dr. Clark received the Leadership in Oncology Social Work Award from the Association of Oncology Social Work, and NCCS also honored her in 1994 with the Outstanding Service Award.

“It is our distinct pleasure to honor Dr. Clark, and we are humbled by the time, thought, and energy she has contributed to cancer survivorship and to our organization,” said Ellen Stovall, 34-year cancer survivor and NCCS President and CEO.

For more information about NCCS and the “Ray of Hope” awards, please visit www.canceradvocacy.org.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with 140,000 members. It promotes, develops, and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy.