Daniel Mango, a dual degree student at BU Wheelock and the School of Social Work, is being honored with the Future of Social Work Award from the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

The Future of Social Work Award recognizes an exceptional Massachusetts Social Work student who promotes a positive image of social work through a commitment to and embodiment of NASW’s six core values of the social work profession. The student must also excel in academics, research, and practice and make promising contributions to the field.

“As a Black man in America who has faced discrimination throughout his life, this award proves to me that despite the hatred, racism, name-calling, microaggressions, and prejudice that I experience on a daily basis, my suffering is not in vain.” says Mango. “People believe in me and my potential, and I am so grateful for this.”

Mango will begin doctoral studies in educational leadership and social justice this fall. He hopes to ultimately become a school principal. “Schools are not just places of education; they are like mini-community centers,” he says. “Our students spend a lot of time in schools and for many students, especially students of color, schools deliver a lot of services that are essential for their survival.”

With more than 120,000 members, NASW is the largest professional organization of social workers in the world. It works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.