Pioneering Contributions
Over a distinguished career spanning more than 40 years, Sam Hickman, MSW has made transformative contributions to the field of social work, particularly in rural communities, professional development, and organizational leadership. As Executive Director of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) West Virginia Chapter from 1985 to 2019, Hickman built one of the most robust and active state chapters in the country. Under his leadership, the chapter became a model for strengthening state-level advocacy while contributing to national cohesion within the profession.
Hickman is especially renowned for elevating rural social work—a historically underrepresented area—onto the national stage. His advocacy and strategic vision brought rural issues into mainstream professional discourse, creating lasting platforms for collaboration, innovation, and visibility in rural and Appalachian practice settings. Among his most enduring legacies is the founding and stewardship of the NASW WV Spring Social Work Conference, now in its 41st year. This annual event has grown into one of the largest and most respected state-level social work conferences in the United States, providing high-quality continuing education to thousands of professionals while consistently amplifying rural perspectives.
Throughout his career, Sam Hickman demonstrated a pioneering commitment to building the infrastructure of social work—especially in underserved regions—through institutional leadership, professional development, and sustained mentorship. Even in retirement, he remains active in policy discussions, national service, and mentorship, continuing to shape the field with vision and generosity.
Career Highlights
As Executive Director of the NASW West Virginia Chapter for more than three decades, Hickman provided strategic leadership, expanded member services, coordinated advocacy at the state level, and oversaw all chapter operations. His leadership helped build a vibrant, engaged membership and laid the groundwork for ongoing success within the chapter and beyond. He actively mentored early-career professionals and incoming NASW chapter executive directors, offering guidance and support—including a smooth leadership transition at NASW WV following his retirement.
One of his signature accomplishments is the creation and continued support of the NASW WV Spring Social Work Conference, which he launched in 1985. Under his direction, the conference became a premier venue for state-level continuing education, attracting thousands of participants and maintaining a strong focus on rural and Appalachian social work practice.
Hickman has also played a foundational role in national efforts to advance rural social work. Since the 1970s, he has been actively involved in the National Rural Social Work Caucus and the National Institute on Social Work and Human Services in Rural Areas, helping to create a sustainable and respected platform for research, collaboration, and professional community. He served multiple terms as Chair of the NASW Council of Chapter Executives, a national body representing chapter leaders, where he contributed to the advancement of NASW priorities and supported peer leadership across the organization. In 2016–2017, Hickman was appointed to West Virginia Governor-Elect Jim Justice’s Transition Committees on Health Care and the Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), where he provided expert policy guidance at a critical juncture in state leadership.
Biographic Data
Sam Hickman holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from West Virginia University. He is a longtime member of the National Association of Social Workers and served as Executive Director of the NASW West Virginia Chapter for over three decades. He resides in Charleston, West Virginia, and has been a social work professional for more than 40 years. Although retired from full-time leadership, he remains active in the field through volunteer capacities, mentorship, and ongoing engagement with professional networks.
Significant Recognition and Awards
Sam Hickman’s leadership has been recognized both formally and informally throughout his career. The NASW West Virginia Chapter created the Samuel A. Hickman Award in his honor, a lasting tribute to his impact. During his tenure, he was named NASW Executive Director of the Year, and he is slated to receive an award from the National Rural Social Work Caucus in the summer. In 2008, he was recognized as the Outstanding Alumni of the Year by the Eberly College of Arts & Sciences at West Virginia University.
Beyond official honors, Hickman is widely respected across the profession. His enduring influence is evidenced by numerous invitations to leadership roles, sustained relationships with social work professionals nationwide, and continued recognition well into retirement. His visionary service and unwavering commitment to the profession are deeply valued among NASW chapter leaders and rural social work advocates alike.