Chief Social Worker takes academic post

The University of Auckland
Media Release
18 August 2009

Chief Social Worker takes academic post at University

Dr Marie Connolly, Chief Social Worker, Ministry of Social Development, has been appointed an Honorary Professor in The University of Auckland’s Faculty of Education.

She joins the School of Counselling, Human Services and Social Work, where she will contribute to the strengthening of child welfare scholarship and practice within the school.

Dr Connolly will also bring valuable expertise to projects run by the University’s Child and Family Research Centre, a collaboration between the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. It is envisaged her appointment will help the Centre establish itself at the forefront of child welfare innovation, both nationally and internationally.

Dr Connolly's work and expertise in the area of child welfare and care and protection systems is acknowledged internationally. She has published extensively, including eight books in her area of scholarship.

Most recently her research interests have focused on human rights and professional practice. Her social work, academic and consulting careers span over 30 years in the USA, Australia, UK and Canada.

Currently, Dr Connolly holds the senior executive position of Chief Social Worker within the Ministry of Social Development. In this role she contributes to the strategic development of the child welfare system in New Zealand and provides professional leadership in the promotion of best practice and practice reform.

“We look forward to the opportunities this honorary appointment provides to strengthen practice, scholarship and research in child welfare across the sector,” Dean of the Faculty of Education, Associate Professor Graeme Aitken says.

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