Social Worker of the Year Award 2006

CAPT Amy Barkin received the 2006 Social Worker of the Year Award in recognition of her exemplary leadership and outstanding accomplishments in improving the health and well-being of underserved and special populations across the nation.

Throughout her PHS career CAPT Barkin directed and participated in national program efforts and cabinet-level initiatives where she had a significant impact on the health of the nation. A skilled clinician and administrator, she has a broad exposure to global public health issues such as HIV/AIDS, health care delivery systems, primary health care, mental health, alcohol and other drug abuse, and maternal and child health concerns. She directed and participated in White House, Departmental, and cabinet-level initiatives, designed and implemented PHS-wide programs, and worked in various programs both within DHHS and on detail to other Federal agencies where she helped shaped policy and legislation. Her record is one of strong leadership and innovative program design, and concern about services and care.

CAPT Barkin's contributions to the PHS mission also extend to her activities with her fellow officers as she continues to be a strong advocate for social workers, HSOs and the PHS. In 1988, CAPT Barkin, on her own initiative, established the Commissioned Officers Uniform Service Center (USC) to help officers purchase uniforms at a reasonable price, as well as provide a vehicle for retiring officers to donate their uniforms. The USC activity is ongoing and proceeds are donated yearly to health-related organizations. In 1993 her experience in developing a mentoring program for her own agency was useful as she assisted in the design of the HSO Mentor Program. She served as the Chair of the Social Event for the 2005 and Co-Chair of the 2006 COA meeting and planned the highly successful Spirit of Philadelphia Cruise and the Colorado History Museum evening gala.