The Bradford Branch of the American Association of University Women held its April meeting at Church of the Nazarene.

Co-president Isabelle Champlin opened the meeting by welcoming members and thanking the members of the Hospitality Committee.

Champlin introduced the branch’s guest speaker, Lori Peace. Peace holds a Bachelor of Arts in human relations and a master’s in social work. She currently serves as a district social worker for Bradford Area schools. Prior to her current position, she worked for McKean County Children and Youth Services for 15 years.

As a social worker in a school setting, she is responsible for supporting students’ social, emotional and behavioral well-being. She also works closely with families and serves as a liaison, connecting family members to community resources when needed. Peace takes a proactive approach to her many responsibilities, which include assessment, individual and group counseling, advocacy and crisis intervention.

Peace noted that she was one of the earliest social workers to be hired by a school district in the area. More recently, most school districts have hired social workers. Peace’s enthusiasm and commitment to the welfare of students was evident throughout her talk. She emphasized how the entire district — teachers, administrators, staff members, counselors and social workers — collaborate to meet the many needs, pressures and challenges facing today’s students.

A business meeting followed.

AAUW’s mission is to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. The Bradford Branch of AAUW was founded April 16, 1921.