With Sadness: Remembering Tricia McCarthy

Dear social work colleagues,

It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of our longtime NASW-Michigan colleague and social work ally, Tricia McCarthy.

Many of you had the privilege of working with Tricia during her more than 20 years of dedicated service to NASW-Michigan. She cared deeply about the social work profession and was instrumental in the success of our Chapter conferences, continuing education programs, and member events. In recent years, Tricia also served as the staff liaison for our Beyond Affirming Care Certificate Program, providing unwavering support to presenters and participants while helping expand this important training across Michigan.

For me and for so many members of our team over the years, Tricia was our "work mom." She genuinely cared about each of us—not just as colleagues, but as people. Even after her retirement this past December, Tricia continued to support our Chapter by helping onboard new staff and generously sharing her knowledge, experience, and encouragement.

Her kindness, strong personality, dedication, and commitment to the social work community have left a lasting impact on our Chapter and on the countless people whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed.

A remembrance and celebration of Tricia's life is being planned for later this fall. Details regarding the date, time, and location will be shared once they are finalized. In the meantime, her family welcomes your memories and is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support. Please consider sharing your memories here.

With sympathy,

Duane Breijak
Executive Director
NASW-Michigan