School of Social Work

An alumna of the school, Ms. Dana Brothers earned her bachelor and master of social work degrees at Memorial, and worked closely with the Lone Mothers: Building Social Inclusion Research Project during her M.S.W. studies.

Professor Janice Parsons, who worked closely with Dana, shared her thoughts:

“Dana was, in so many ways, everything that social work educators hope to see in their graduates. She put a keen analytic mind to work in service of compassion and social justice, and she truly made a difference in the lives of those she encountered.

Dana was a tireless advocate for those whose voices have been silenced. She lived a life of kindness, warmth and good humour, combined with the ethical courage to challenge wrongs that perpetuate injustice.

During her M.S.W. studies, Dana worked as a research assistant with the Lone Mothers: Building Social Inclusion Research Project. That job title doesn’t convey the pivotal role Dana played in the success of our project. She provided training for 11 lone mothers receiving income support to prepare them for conducting research interviews with other lone mothers. In so doing, Dana left an indelible mark on the lives of those women, and on academic team members as well.

Dana championed the lone mothers who were a part of the project, with equal measures of support, challenge and advocacy. She has been nothing less than inspirational in the lives of research team members, and she is deeply missed.”

Dana Brothers obituary

Heartfelt condolences go out to Dana’s family, friends and all who shared the gift of being touched by Dana.