NASW Foundation National Programs

NASW Social Work Pioneers^®

Kittye Austin (1900- )

For two decades, Kittye Clyde Austin, ACSW, played a key role in the development of Alabama's social welfare programs. She joined the state public welfare staff in 1946 as assistant director of the Bureau of Field Service. Prior to that she had been with the U.S. Selective Service, with the WPA, the Relief Program and the Child Welfare Program.

She began her career in social work in Chilton County during the depression of the 1930's, having previously been a teacher, principal, and elementary school supervisor. She retired in November 1969 as administrative assistant to the commissioner and director of the Alabama Social Welfare Department's Bureau of Administrative Service - the position she had held since 1948. She had responsibilities including working with the state board and commissioners in all areas of the state and county department operations.

Austin received a B.S. degree from George Peabody College and took graduate social work training at the New York School of Social Work and Tulane University. She was active in the NASW. She had many professional organizational commitments and had participated in the White House Conference on Aging in 1961. At the time of her retirement she was honored by resolutions adopted by the State Board of Pension and Security and the Alabama Association of County Directors of Pension and Security.