He is committed to the Faculty’s vision to create social wellbeing and just societies, and is prepared for the opportunities and challenges presented to the faculty,staff and students as they strive to meet this vision over his term. Sieppert says, “I’m both excited and humbled to lead the Faculty of Social Work. As an alumnus, I’m proud of my long history here and the ability this Faculty gave me to call myself a social worker. As a long-time faculty member, I’m also aware of the remarkable university and community colleagues I work with daily. Together we will maintain and build upon the Faculty’s traditions.” A two-time University of Calgary graduate, Sieppert received his BSW in 1987 and his MSW in 1991 from the Faculty, and his PhD (Social Work) in 1994 from Arizona State University. He has extensive and important publications to his credit, notably
in the areas of social work education, accountability in human services, and community development in neighbourhood contexts. His reports have helped shape policy alternatives, locally
and globally, related to the delivery of government social services. Sieppert also contributes
significantly to the community at large through active participation in human services boards and
committees. He recently chaired the Board of Governors for the Distress Centre Calgary and currently sits on the Professional Social Work Education Board for the Alberta College of Social Workers. “I’m very pleased to pass the torch to Jackie,” says outgoing dean Gayla Rogers. “He has served the Faculty well for many years in many ways, and his wisdom, insight and good judgment make him ideal as the next dean. I wish him many years of success and happiness in his new role.”
Sieppert is eager to get started in his new role, and anticipates a great future for the Faculty. “You can look forward to more outstanding research, innovative educational programming, and community involvement from us,” he promises.
