At a Glance

NASW Virginia welcomes Molly Arbogast as its incoming Executive Director. In this message to members, Molly shares her background, honors outgoing leadership, and outlines what will remain consistent—and what will be strengthened—as the chapter moves forward.

A Message from NASW Virginia’s Incoming Executive Director

Dear NASW Virginia Members,

My name is Molly Arbogast, and I am honored to introduce myself as the incoming Executive Director of the NASW Virginia Chapter. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and to begin building relationships as we move forward together.

I want to begin by acknowledging Debra Riggs for her many years of dedicated service to NASW and for her leadership as Executive Director in recent years. Her commitment and steady guidance have left a strong foundation, and I am deeply appreciative of the work she has carried forward on behalf of Virginia’s social workers.

I come to this role both as a social worker and as someone who cares deeply about advancing the profession. My background includes organizational leadership, advocacy, workforce development, and statewide systems work. I believe NASW Virginia is well-positioned to continue leading in education, clinical and macro practice support, and policy advocacy across the Commonwealth.

Transitions naturally bring questions, so I want to share a few points of clarity as we begin this next chapter together.

What Will Remain the Same

• NASW Virginia will continue to operate as its own chapter. Your identity, voice, and priorities remain intact.

• The current staff remains in place, providing important continuity and institutional knowledge.

• All scheduled programs and events will move forward as planned.

  
  

What Will Be Strengthened

• More streamlined communication. Members can expect regular updates and opportunities to connect, including a membership town hall.

• Stronger collaboration with the Chapter Board. Building this partnership will be a priority as I learn more about your needs and goals.

• Continued partnerships with agencies, universities, and community leaders—relationships that are central to supporting social workers across Virginia.

Over the past several weeks, I’ve been gaining access to systems and learning more about Virginia’s unique history, priorities, and strengths. Throughout this transition, I am committed to clear communication, transparency, and earning your trust. I am stepping into this role because I believe in the power of social work and in the collective strength of this community.

I look forward to meeting many of you at the upcoming Annual Conference. In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to me at marbogast.naswva@socialworkers.org.

Warm regards,

Molly Arbogast, Executive Director, NASW Virginia