Pacific Quest is proud to announce that Mike McGee, Family Program Manager, was awarded a National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Hawai`i scholarship! This scholarship supports social work students in good standing who are making a difference in their communities. The NASW Student Scholarships were first awarded in 2009 and aim to assist students in their education as they pursue careers in social work.
Mike McGee, Family Program Manager
Mike is currently pursuing his MSW at the University of Hawaii – Manoa, focusing on Mental and Behavioral Health. The program itself has a focus on indigenous methodologies and populations, which ties in with the Rites of Passage programming that Mike spearheads at Pacific Quest. Of the award, Mike comments, “ I am truly humbled to be chosen for this scholarship. Social work is such a unique field in its acknowledgement of the strength and capacities of all human beings. Throughout my years of experience at PQ, I see how these strength-based values are essential for the therapeutic process.” Mike will continue to apply his passion for the rich marriage of Rites of Passage and horticulture therapy in his current role of Family Program Manager. Mike hopes to further utilize his education and experience in pursuit of becoming a therapist at Pacific Quest.
This is Mike’s second scholarship award. Last year he received a scholarship from the Zachary Fochtman Foundation to carry on a legacy of a young man who aspired to become a Wilderness Therapist. The award is given annually to individuals that are currently in the wilderness therapy field. Dr. Lorraine Freedle, Clinical Director, comments, “Mike has a solid and unique skill set, which he continues to develop. He will carry Zachary’s legacy forward with integrity. We are proud to have him on our team.”
Mike will receive the award on March 16th in Honolulu – Congratulations, Mike!