This year’s award recipients exemplify both the enthusiasm of emerging social workers and the unwavering commitment of experienced professionals. In the **“Best Newcomer Award”** category, three alumni were recognized: Yu-Teng Wei (Li Psychological Counseling Center), Yu-Wei Tsai (World Vision Taiwan, Yilan Center 2), and Ming-Han Chan (Children and Women's Welfare Section, Department of Social Affairs, Yilan County Government). Although these three promising social workers serve in different fields, including mental health, international humanitarian organizations, and public-sector child and youth protection, they share the same enthusiasm and proactive spirit at the beginning of their careers, bringing new energy to Yilan’s social welfare network.
In the **“Outstanding Service Award”** category, two alumni received recognition: Ting-Hao Hsieh (Tzu-Huai Social Welfare Foundation) and Chih-Yin Lee (Yilan Branch Office, Taiwan Fund for Children and Families). Both alumni have devoted years of service to child and adolescent welfare. Facing complex family cases and social challenges, they remain steadfast in their roles, drawing on their professional knowledge and practical experience to provide reliable support for disadvantaged children and adolescents.
Our department has long promoted the educational philosophy of “local engagement and practical application,” encouraging students to become actively involved in their communities. All five award-winning alumni have chosen to serve locally in Yilan, working across government agencies and major social welfare organizations. Their achievements not only demonstrate that their solid professional training is highly valued by employers but also highlight the department’s important role as a key institution for cultivating social work professionals in Yilan.
The faculty, staff, and students of our department take great pride in the outstanding achievements of these alumni. We hope they will continue to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work and inspire more junior students to pursue helping professions, working together to build a stronger and more comprehensive social safety net for Yilan.
The faculty, staff, and students of the Department of Social Work at Fo Guang University extend their heartfelt congratulations to all the award recipients.