By Dr. Alma J. Carten
(December 2000)

In a ceremony spanning two days last April, the people of Ghana honored Dr. James Dumpson by making him a chief. He was also given the name Nana Bonsu Ababio and made a citizen of the country.

Dr. Dumpson is in the minds of the many who know him, the most distinguished social worker in New York. The only commissioner of social services to have served on two separate occasions, Dr. Dumpson has had numerous positions including as Dean of the Fordham University School of Social Service and Chairman of the Health and Hospitals Corporation Dr. Dumpson has also served as a vice president of the New York Community Trust.

In a program sponsored by Black Agency Executives (BAE) at the Shomburg Center for Research in Black Culture on October 17, Dr. Dumpson shared his experience with colleagues and friends. In his remarks, Dr. Dumpson said that he could not adequately put into words the meaning of the experience. He said that taking the oath of office and becoming a citizen of Ghana gave him a sense of belonging and a sense of his roots that provided a certain comfort. (He is keeping his U.S. citizenship.) He also said that the ceremony, involving many people, the wearing of traditional robes, and the rhythms of African drums, provided a deep spiritual experience, as well.

In recognizing the tribute paid to him in Ghana and the role that he has played in New York, a representative of 100 Black Men, Inc., Lesley Wyache, MSW, was most poignant when he said "we are all standing on the shoulders of Dr. Dumpson".

Chapter President, Dr. Alma Carten, gave the keynote address at the Shomburg event, and shared her vision for NASW and social welfare.