NASW Foundation National Programs
International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award

The International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award is given to an individual, group, or organization that has significantly advanced the public image of professional social work. This monetary prize is made possible from an endowment fund established by a generous contribution in 1996 from Mrs. Rhoda Sarnat, LCSW and her spouse, Bernard Sarnat, MD.

Rhoda G. Sarnat is a retired clinical social worker, former faculty member at the University of Southern California Graduate School of Social Work, and a member of NASW who is committed to improving the public perception of professional social work. 

The purpose of the Sarnat Award is to increase public awareness and recognition of the value of professional social work. The recipient is awarded a cash prize of $3,000.

• International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award Guidelines
• 2008 International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award presented to James Karls, PhD, LCSW
• 2007 International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award presented to William C. Bell
• 2006 International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award presented to Merl C. "Terry" Hokenstad
• 2005 International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award presented to Michael Cronin
• 2004 International Rhoda G. Sarnat Award presented to Kathleen Borland, LCSW, ACSW

• 2003 International Rhoda G. Sarnat award presented to Friends of Chernobyl Centers U.S., Inc. (FOCCUS, INC)

Previous Award Recipients