Barb Woods, a 26-year School of Social Work veteran, passed away in her sleep on Oct. 10, 2024, age 71. Barb started her professional career at the UW in 1982 before joining the School of Social Work as a grants manager in the Office of the Dean.
Barb is remembered for her unwavering support of countless faculty and staff in achieving their research goals. She also played an instrumental role in growing the SSW Staff Council, which captured staff voices, enhanced School governance, and provided School staff with professional development opportunities. In 2011, the School honored her many contributions with the School of Social Work Staff Award (now called the Mary Grembowski Staff Award).
On a lighter side, Barb was an early member of a faculty-staff exercise group that starred in highly entertaining dance performances at School auctions for which Barb designed t-shirts, costumes and wigs. Her talents brought the social work community together on countless occasions and led to life-long friendships with colleagues who treasured her warmth. Barb also took her energy and enthusiasm to the wider community by promoting social and economic justice for marginalized groups through her volunteer work with local nonprofits and fundraising events—most memorably a well-attended BBQ following Hurricane Katrina.
Barb is survived by her partner Woody, her daughter Carrie, granddaughter Brittany, and a community of friends who have come to know Barb as a tireless worker, fiercely loyal friend and a loving mother and grandmother.
In observation of Barb’s lasting impact on our community, the School will host a memorial service in the coming weeks. If you would like to know more about the service or provide support to Barb’s family, please contact Nancy Hooyman at hooy@uw.edu or Vicki Anderson-Ellis at vaellis@uw.edu.