From left: Former Director and Professor of the WVU School of Social Work Deana F. Morrow, Sam Hickman, NASW West Virginia Executive Director Molly Arbogast, and NASW West Virginia Board President Danielle Woods-Huffman at the 2025 NASW West Virginia Spring Social Work Conference.

CHARLESTON, West Virginia – Samuel A. Hickman, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, long-time member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) West Virginia Chapter, has been named to the National Association of Social Workers Foundation (NASWF) 2025 class of NASW Social Work Pioneers..

The NASW Social Work Pioneers program honors members of the social work profession who have contributed to the evolution and enrichment of the profession. The program identifies and recognizes individuals whose unique dedication, commitment, and determination have improved social and human conditions. Since its launch in 1994, almost 900 accomplished individuals have been inducted into the Pioneer Program.

As one of 17 influential leaders in the profession named to this year’s class, Hickman will be formally inducted during the NASW Annual Social Work Conference in Washington, D.C., in June 2026.

“The NASW Foundation has recognized the outstanding achievements of Social Work Pioneers for nearly three decades,” said NASW CEO Dr. Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C. “This year’s pioneers have left an indelible mark on social work, leading the development of countless human services programs and government policies that have positively affected people nationwide. We are incredibly pleased to celebrate these extraordinary individuals and recognize their accomplishments.”

Over a distinguished career spanning more than 40 years, Hickman made transformative contributions to the field of social work, particularly in rural communities, professional development, and organizational leadership. As Executive Director of the NASW West Virginia Chapter from 1985 to 2019, Hickman built one of the most robust and active state chapters in the country. Under his leadership, the chapter became a model for strengthening state-level advocacy while contributing to national cohesion within the profession.

Among his most enduring legacies is the founding and stewardship of the NASW West Virginia Spring Social Work Conference, which has been held for 41 years. This annual event has grown into one of the largest and most respected state-level social work conferences in the United States, providing high-quality continuing education to thousands of professionals while consistently amplifying rural perspectives.

Hickman is especially renowned for elevating rural social work — a historically underrepresented area — onto the national stage. Since the 1970s, he has been actively involved in the National Rural Social Work Caucus and the National Institute on Social Work and Human Services in Rural Areas, helping to create a sustainable and respected platform for research, collaboration, and professional community. From 2016–2017, Hickman served on West Virginia Governor-Elect Jim Justice’s Transition Committees on Health Care and the Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), where he provided expert policy guidance at a critical juncture in state leadership.

"It's an incredible honor to be recognized by your peers,” Hickman said. “When people in your field notice, the significance of your actions sinks in. I'm especially proud when I hear from former students and new practitioners I've tried to encourage and mentor. It's also gratifying to know that progress has been made on issues I began working on in 1985, such as mental health parity, affordable health care, safety net programs, and professional recognition."

Throughout his career, Hickman demonstrated a pioneering commitment to building the infrastructure of social work, especially in underserved regions, through institutional leadership, professional development, and sustained mentorship. Even in retirement, he remains active in policy discussions, national service, and mentorship, continuing to shape the field with vision and generosity.

“Sam embodies the very best of our profession,” said NASW West Virginia Chapter Executive Director Molly Arbogast, MSW, LSW, CSWM. “His leadership and advocacy transformed social work in West Virginia, and his mentorship has guided me and so many others in profound ways. His dedication to building the NASW West Virginia Chapter into the strong, respected organization it is today has left an enduring mark on our state and our members. It is a privilege to celebrate his legacy and the lasting impact of his work.”