Debate to Ignite Interest in Child Welfare

CONTACT: Hannah Drutz or Whitney Hale, (859) 257-1754 ext. 229

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 7, 2008) – Experts from the Center for the Study on the Violence Against Children (CSVAC) at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work will present the Sixth Annual Irma Sarett Rosenstein Lecture. The event theme, "In the Best Interest of Children: Contemporary Debates," will bring together several leading thinkers and researchers in issues related to child welfare at the annual program scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the W.T. Young Library Auditorium.

The Rosenstein lecture will feature two Lincoln-Douglas style debates examining issues of translational science; violence against children; utility of evidence in real world settings; and policy and practice implications of the Adoption and Safe Families Act.

Interactive debate participants in this year's event include:

• Ginny Sprang, the Buckhorn Endowed Professor of Child Welfare and Children's Mental Health in the UK College of Social Work and director of CSVAC;
• Jim Clark, the Wilson Professor of Mental Health in the College of Social Work and associate director of CSVAC;
• Otto Kaak, professor of psychiatry, pediatrics, and social work and associate director of CSVAC;
• Aimee Mau, licensed clinical social worker and clinical specialist with the Child and Adolescent Trauma Treatment and Training Institute at CSVAC
• Carlton D. Craig, assistant professor of social work and faculty associate at CSVAC;
• Kay Hubbard, assessment coordinator of Comprehensive Assessment and Training Services Project at CSVAC; and
• Heather Risk, project director for the Child and Adolescent Trauma Treatment and Training Institute at CSVAC.

The debates presented as part of the Rosenstein Lecture will conclude with opportunities for attendee participation, critique and a facilitated discussion of the issues within contemporary practice.

The Center for the Study on the Violence Against Children (CSVAC) is dedicated to the enhancement of the health and well-being of children and their families through research, service and dissemination of information about child abuse and trauma.

The Rosenstein Lecture, sponsored by the College of Social Work, is designed to bring nationally known speakers to UK. The lecture topics include child and family welfare issues of significance to our community, state, and society as a whole. The prestigious annual lecture is made possible by a generous gift from Irma and Irving Rosenstein, Lexington business leaders.

Individuals interested in attending the Rosenstein Lecture should reserve space. For more information or to make a reservation to attend the event, contact the College of Social Work via e-mail to khuts2@uky.edu or call (859) 257-6654.