Christine Schultz, LCSW

President

My name is Christine Schultz. I am currently the Director of Patient Support Services for Norton Sound Health Corporation (NSHC) in Nome, where I have been employed for the past 26 years. My professional experience in Alaska also includes working at Maniilaq Association in Kotzebue for 6 years and at the previous Alaska Kidney Center in Anchorage for 2 years. I have worked as a Medical Social Worker since 1991, after receiving my MSW from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill in 1990. I am an LCSW in Alaska, and I am credentialed through NASW as an ACSW, QCSW, DCSW and C-SWHC (Certified Social Worker in Health Care).

At NSHC, I administer their programs for Medical Social Work, 3 patient lodging facilities, home-based personal care, Medicaid Waiver Care Coordination, dementia care, patient spiritual support, interpretation services, etc.

Currently, I am the Western Region representative on the NASW Alaska Chapter. I also have board experience through the previous Alaska Chapter of the national Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care, where I was the Alaska Chapter President for many years. I serve on the state’s Maternal & Child Death Review and participate in state dementia-focused work groups. I also have experience as a Field Instructor for MSW/BSW students.

Heather Schimanski-Lee, BSW

Secretary

As the Director for Community Housing at JAMHI Health & Wellness, Inc., I play a pivotal role in providing vital support to individuals with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). Additionally, I oversee a dedicated team of peer support and reentry staff, ensuring that our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual we serve. Recently, I had the privilege of participating in LEAD day alongside my field practicum supervisor. Together, we passionately advocated for parity in mental health services, striving to ensure that individuals facing mental health challenges receive equitable access to the support and resources they deserve. Beyond my role at JAMHI, I am deeply committed to fostering positive change within the community. Collaborating with various social service agencies, I actively advocate for the expansion and enhancement of peer support services, recognizing the invaluable role they play in promoting recovery and empowerment. Furthermore, my dedication to advancing peer support extends to my role as a certified trainer for peer support training. By sharing my expertise and knowledge in this area, I aim to empower others to become effective advocates and allies in the journey towards inclusivity.

Jennifer Kiser-Brower

Northern Regional Representative

Jennifer "Jen" Brower is a dedicated and accomplished Director of Community Services with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Alaska Anchorage. With over 20 years of experience in the social services field, Jen has developed a reputation for being a confident, competent, and organized service provider and manager. Her extensive career spans a wide array of roles, including mental health services, grant writing and administration, case management, teaching, and program management.

Since 2002, Jen has called Utqiagvik home, where she has built a significant professional and personal life. In 2013, she married Eben Brower, and together they are raising three children. Her professional journey includes notable positions such as a Grant Writer and Administrator, Case Manager, School Counselor, Deputy Director of the North Slope Borough Health Department's Community Services Program, Adjunct Instructor at llisagvik College, NASW Northern Regional Representative, Statewide Independent Living Council Northern Representative, and Alaska Association of School Social Workers Vice President.

Her commitment to improving community services and her ability to manage and coordinate across multiple agencies reflect her deep understanding of diverse client needs and systemic operations. Jen's blend of professional expertise and personal dedication makes her a pivotal figure in advancing social services in her community.

Marissa Ridgley

Southcentral Rep Unit I, Seat 1 (AKC)

I am deeply committed to the NASW Code of Ethics, applying its principles in my role as a Middle School Teacher. While teaching may seem straightforward, I recognize it as a nuanced profession that encompasses advocacy, service, and a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and dignity. My commitment to integrity and competence aligns closely with the fundamental values of social justice.

I have the privilege of working with a diverse group of students from low-income families, who face various challenges, including significant health disparities and socio-economic obstacles that often exceed typical expectations. As an educator, I am dedicated to addressing these complexities by providing tailored support that meets their individual needs. My goal is to create an inclusive and empowering environment that nurtures their growth and development.

To foster their academic success, I actively participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and engage in professional development sessions with my colleagues. Through our collaborative efforts, we develop and implement strategies that enhance the academic achievements of these students. Our teamwork ensures that we effectively address the multifaceted challenges they encounter while establishing a supportive framework that facilitates their educational progress.

The most rewarding aspect of my profession is witnessing the growth and success of my students throughout their academic journeys. Their achievements not only bring them joy but also fulfill me with the knowledge that I have made a meaningful difference in their lives, helping them realize their potential and become the best versions of themselves in society. I take great joy in seeing individuals strive and thrive from within.

Jocelyn Leigh Smith, BSW

Interior Region Rep

Employed by Tanana Chiefs Conference, Leigh provides substance use prevention in the rural communities of Interior Alaska, to include Narcan training and wellness activities. In addition, Leigh is involved with implementing prevention projects to increase awareness and resources, as well as implementation of policy and protocol related to behavioral health. Leigh has been involved with NASW for nearly two years; first, as the BSW Representative and now as the MSW Representative. In March 2023, she attended LEAD Day in Juneau and spoke with legislatures on hot topics such as opioid awareness, education, and mental health. Leigh received NASW Alaska Chapter BSW Student of the Year in 2023 and was awarded a NASW scholarship for her graduate school journey. Leigh is also on the Policy Committee for the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, and looking to be more involved with community efforts once she graduates.

Jonetta Benjamin, BSW

MSW Student Rep

Joenetta Benjamin is a second-year graduate student in the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She holds multiple A.A. and A.S. degrees from Palomar College, focusing on early childhood and adolescents’ development, social and behavioral development, and earned her B.A. in Psychological Science from Cal State San Marcos. Her research interests include social determinants of health and healing and recovery, particularly PTSD and its long-term psychological effects such as psychosomatic symptoms in adulthood. She is passionate about integrating multiple behavioral therapies to support the wellbeing of the person. Dedicated to leadership and service, Joenetta has held leadership roles with the Educational Opportunity Program Association, Student Veterans Organization, during her military and professional career, and the Tukwut Leadership Circle. She is also a lifetime member of Phi Theta Kappa, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and the National Phi Alpha Honor Society for Social Work Students. Her commitment to community is reflected through ongoing volunteer work with various organizations as she seeks new opportunities within the community of Anchorage. In her free time, she enjoys being with her dog, tending to her plants, and learning new skills. Her goal is to become a powerful “Voice of Change.”

MiLee Yu, BSW

BSW Student Rep

I am currently a full-time MSW student at the University of Alaska Anchorage. I have been the Business Manager for Club Council for two academic years as a BSW. I was also the Treasurer for the Feminist Intersectional Rights Movement, which is the only Feminist club at UAA. Additionally, I was the Treasurer, then that President of the UAA Student Social Work Coalition. I am also part of the Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society as well as the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, specifically the UAA Beta Tau Delta Chapter. Lastly, I volunteer at Covenant House in my spare time.