Ruth S. Tefferteller (August 28, 1917 – May 1989) – Social Group Worker, Author, American Red Cross Worker, Program Director Henry Street Settlement Introduction: In 1942, Ralph and Ruth Tefferteller began coordinating their respective concerns and careers. From 1942 until 1946, both served in the Army. Ruth was an army hospital recreation worker with…

Ralph B.  Tefferteller (January 10, 1910 – February 5, 1988): Social Worker, Labor Organizer and Director, Henry Street Settlement House Introduction: Ralph Tefferteller was a social workers who spent much of his career (from 1946 to 1967) at the Henry Street Settlement in New York City. After leaving Henry Street, with his wife Ruth, the…

Charles Nelson Crittenton (1833-1909) – Business Owner, Evangelist, Philanthropist and Founder of the National Florence Crittenton Mission   Introduction: Charles Nelson Crittenton went into the drug business in New York City in 1861. In 1882, after his four-year-old daughter Florence died of scarlet fever he devoted his time and wealth to the establishment of the Florence…

  Harry L. Lurie (February 28, 1892-June 25, 1973): Social Worker, Author, Researcher and Administrator   Introduction: Harry L. Lurie made an historic contribution to the advancement of social welfare in America in administration, research, teaching and writing.  His career spanned more than a half century of service, dealing with an exceptional range of needs:…

Katherine A.  Kendall (1910 – 2010): Social Work Pioneer, Educator and First Educational Secretary of the Council of Social Work Education   Introduction:  Katherine A.  Kendall was closely identified with major developments in social work education in the United States and internationally over four decades.  As Executive Secretary of the American Association of Schools of…

Terence V. Powderly (1849-1924): Union Leader, Politician, Machinist, Lawyer By: Michael Barga Introduction: Terence V. Powderly was a man who captured the public eye as a politician and labor organizer at the turn of the 20th century, particularly as three-term mayor of Scranton, PA and member of the Knights of Labor leadership.  Throughout his career,…

Porter Raymond Lee: (December 21, 1879  — March 8, 1939) Social Worker, Educator and Author   Introduction: Porter Lee is most remembered for his contributions to the advancement of social work education and in particular development of the casework method. He worked in Charity Organization Societies in Buffalo, NY and Philadelphia, PA before beginning his…