# Alex Gitterman

Alex Gitterman whose original name was, Leszek, was an American social work educator and a leading figure in the field of social work. He was born in Poland and was a Holocaust survivor who immigrated to the United States at eight years of age. He was a professor at the University of Connecticut School of Social Work, where he made significant contributions to both social work theory and practice. Gitterman was widely recognized for his work on the Life Model of Social Work Practice, which he co-developed and which has become a foundational framework in the field.

## Education

Gitterman graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor's degree in 1960 before earning his Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Hunter College School of Social Work two years later and earned his Doctor of Education Degree (EdD). from Columbia University, Teachers College. He dedicated his career to teaching, research, and the development of social work practice models.

## Career

Throughout his career, Gitterman focused on the intersection of social work practice and theory. He worked at Columbia School of Social Work for 30 years. His most notable contribution was the Life Model of Social Work Practice, which he developed with Carel Germain at Columbia School of Social Work. This model emphasizes the importance of understanding individuals within their environmental contexts and has been influential in shaping modern social work practices.
Gitterman authored and co-authored numerous books, articles, and research papers that explore social work practice, group work, and the application of the Life Model in various settings. His works are widely cited and have had a significant impact on social work education and practice

## Publications

Gitterman was a prolific writer whose most recent book, The Life Model of Social Work Practice: Advances in Knowledge and Practice (Columbia University Press) is in its fourth printing and is still widely used in social work education). His edited text, Social Work with Vulnerable Populations is in its third edition and is widely regarded as a handbook for working with diverse populations.
In addition to his published books and articles, Gitterman shared his expertise through presentations at several other schools of social work, educational institutions and professional organizations. He was also a consultant for a number of social agencies.

## Awards and recognition

Gitterman’s many contributions were recognized with prestigious awards, including the Significant Lifetime Achievement in Social Work Education Award from the Council on Social Work Education.
A Lifetime Contribution Award from the International Association for the Advancement of Social Work with Groups, Inc. and a Robert Wood Johnson Exemplary Publication Award, among others. His work has influenced social work education globally, and he is regarded as one of the key figures in the development of contemporary social work theory.

## Legacy

A beloved teacher and mentor, Gitterman prepared generations of social work practitioners and scholars across the country and globe. Alex created a learning environment characterized by warmth, intellectual rigor, mutual aid, and the fostering of both curiosity and professional identity among his students.
Alex Gitterman's work continues to be a cornerstone in social work education, particularly through his development of the Life Model, which remains a vital framework for many practitioners and educators. His teachings have shaped the careers of countless social workers, and his publications continue to be essential reading in social work programs worldwide.scholarship, teaching, mentoring and professional engagement.