Hank L. Rainer

Hank chose social work as his life profession, completing his master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern Mississippi, and joining his professional association, the National Association of Social Workers, where he was a member for over 46 years. Hank served NASW in numerous capacities and maintained a presence on the NASW, Mississippi Chapter Board of Directors as Regional Board Member, Treasurer, Vice-President, and President. He also served on or was chair of the following committees: Legislative, Committee on Nominations and Leadership, Ethics and Professional Review, Annual Conference, Continuing Education, and Search Committee for Executive Director. He was continually active in social work advocacy action for people in need, as well as for the profession itself both in Mississippi and nationally. He supported all chapter activities, and was dedicated to service to clients and mentorship to new social workers. Hank supported the evolution of social work licensure in Mississippi, and served four terms on the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists, the state regulatory board for licensing and disciplinary action for these professions. He was appointed to these positions by the Lt. Governor of Mississippi.

Other honors that he received were:

NASW MS Chapter Social Worker of the Year

NASW MS Chapter Lifetime Achievement Award

Janice Sandefur, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, former NASW MS Chapter Executive Director, remembers Hank as “one of the most the professional, supportive and tenacious social workers I have ever known, quick to assist professionally and personally in any situation. He demonstrated compassion with accountability, and exemplified social work values and principals, throughout his career. He will be sorely missed by so many”.

He is survived by his partner and husband of 44 years, Larry G. Brunson, Jr.