Professor Maryann Amodeo Retires After 30 Years at BUSSW

On Tuesday, May 17, the BU School of Social Work community came together to celebrate the 30-year career of Professor Maryann Amodeo, who retires this spring. Amodeo joined BUSSW in 1986.

Colleagues, friends, and family gathered together in the Trustee Ballroom at BU to honor Amodeo’s many accomplishments. The evening included performances by Gian Carlo Buscaglia and Los Altar Boyz, La Pinata Dance Group, and the Boston Children’s Chorus.

Professor Janice Furlong emceed the event.

Dean Gail Steketee kicked off the evening, describing Amodeo as having a
“special talent for educating social workers.”

“You are a consummate advocate for what is right and just,” Steketee told the nearly
150 attendees.

Professor Michael Melendez of Salem State University School of Social Work echoed Steketee’s sentiments. He described Amodeo as “someone who practices equity.”

BU School of Social Work professor emerita Cassandra Clay said Amodeo is “always listening” and utilizing a “strengths-based perspective.”

Associate Dean for Research and Professor Lena Lundgren, who has worked with Amodeo in the Center for Addiction Research and Services, called attention to Amodeo’s impressive capacity for research. On a personal note, Lundgren added, “You are the fairy godmother. What is a fairy godmother? Someone who helps transform your life for the better.”

 Additional speakers included BU School of Social Work lecturer Rick Cresta, Holly Lockwood (Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence), Joy Connell (MA Department of Mental Health), BU School of Medicine professors Daniel Alford and Jeffrey Samet, BU School of Social Work dean emeritus Hubie Jones (’57), and colleagues from Casa Esperanza. Each additional speaker described Amodeo’s dedication to addiction treatment and research, as well as her caring and funny disposition.

In her parting remarks, Amodeo conducted a psychosocial assessment on herself—sharing stories from her childhood and development in the field of social work. Although sad to leave her BUSSW community behind, Amodeo looks forward to the next adventures in her life.

“It’s been a privilege to work with three deans who have provided me with  autonomy, support, and encouragement,” Amodeo said, “and who share a strong desire to see the school, and our faculty, succeed. Thank you.”