The University of Alabama School of Social Work has established a tradition to conserve, preserve and perpetuate African American history and culture. In 2011 when discussing with Dean Lucinda Roff who Dr. Ethel Hall was and her critical role in developing the School’s first African American Heritage Program, Dr. Cassandra Simon, with the support of the Dean presented a resolution to the School of Social Work faculty, requesting the African American Heritage Program be named after Dr. Hall.

The resolution states the School will be committed to an annual celebration of African Americans and African American heritage.  The celebration should demonstrate, in a public way, the School’s recognition of the importance of such a celebration in contributing to the common good and a socially just society.

Dr. Ethel Hall was the first woman and African-American to graduate from The University of Alabama School of Social Work’s doctoral program.  She was also instrumental in instituting the School’s first African American Heritage Day Program.  The School of Social Work hold this special celebration in honor of Dr. Ethel Hall’s outstanding contributions and pioneering efforts.