VA Mid-Atlantic Health Care Network
Asheville Social Worker Gets National Recognition
2015 Social Worker of the Year John Cowart
Asheville Employee Social Worker of Year
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – John Cowart, an employee of the Charles George VA Medical Center, has been named the 2015 Social Worker of the Year by the National Association of Social Workers North Carolina Chapter.
“During his 30 years of distinguished service [Mr. Cowart] has demonstrated dedication, leadership and commitment to the values of social work,” said Richard Adams, Chief of Social Work Service at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville. “Not because of an outstanding single event, or even an outstanding year, rather due to his consistent, outstanding practice as a clinician, educator, supervisor and leader whose contributions have enhanced the profession of social work.”
The award is given annually to a social work professional who has demonstrated commendable social work practice and involvement with NASW and other professional, civic, and community organizations.
As a social work supervisor at the Charles George Veteran Administration Medical Center in Asheville, Cowart provides direct patient care and performs individual, couples and group psychotherapy for veterans.
“I am honored to represent Social Work and particularly to represent Social Work within the VA,” Cowart said.” I think this validates the hard work and dedication of VA social workers in serving Veterans and their families,” said John Cowart.
For the past 15 years, Cowart has lead a group of veterans diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder to Washington, D.C., to visit the National War Memorials as a form of therapy and healing.
