Helping Those Who Help

The Dalai Lama said it best, “It is not enough to be compassionate. You must act.”

No other profession embodies this sentiment more completely than the field of social work. Social workers are passionate and giving individuals who dedicate themselves to helping the vulnerable and disadvantaged in society, working long hours for little pay.  Florida Atlantic University’s Sandler School of Social Work strives to prepare those pursuing the profession with the best tools for a successful career. Now, thanks to the multi-million-dollar renovation generously gifted by Sandler Family, this goal is within reach.

On Friday, March 18, the Phyllis & Harvey Sandler School of Social Work will celebrate the 11th Annual Phyllis Sandler Heart of Social Work, raising funds in support of the school’s mission while also paying tribute to the immeasurable impact social worker professionals have on our communities.

“My parents always instilled a culture of philanthropy in our family,” said Robin Rubin, MSW, instructor in the Sandler School of Social Work and daughter of Phyllis and Harvey Sandler. “It is a great honor to help continue their legacy of giving and to work alongside my esteemed colleagues as we prepare our Florida Atlantic social work students to change the world.”

The event will be celebratory on multiple levels. School leadership will reveal how the Sandler Family’s $7 million gift has transformed the school, FAU President John Kelly will give a special keynote address and guests will learn how social work students, alumni and partners are making an impact in our communities today. There will also be a commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Director of the Sandler School, Heather Thompson recognizes the incredible value this contribution has made. “The Sandler’s made it possible for our brick-and-mortar spaces to reflect the gold-standard education offered by our nationally and internationally renowned faculty,” she says. “We are incredibly grateful for their family’s ongoing support.”

Social work students will be on hand to provide pre-event tours of the renovations, which includes modernized classrooms equipped with the latest learning technology, a new student lounge and a new graduate research hub, along with a new 75-seat auditorium, numerous renovated offices, break areas, administrative and advising suites and more.  

Guests are invited to establish a lasting tribute to their loved ones through a named gift. 

The Boca Raton Observer is the exclusive media sponsor of this event.

For more information, contact Katherine Frazier-Jones @ kfjones@fau.edu.