Toria N. Pettway, LMSW, a psychiatric social worker for the UAB Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, has been named the 2025 recipient of the UAB Social Work Partnership in Community Service Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to patient care, mental health advocacy and community engagement.
Since joining UAB in 2023, Pettway has had a transformative impact in the division – by developing and implementing the unit’s first formalized protocol for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) screening, which helps identify and address the mental health needs of patients recovering from traumatic injury. Through this initiative, she has connected over 70 patients to vital mental health resources ranging from psychiatric consults to ongoing counseling with licensed professionals.
Pettway also plays a role in the Hospital-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Program (VIP). She provides bedside support and assesses individual needs bridging the gap between trauma care and community-based healing.
Pettway’s efforts extend far beyond the bounds of UAB Hospital. Once released, Pettway co-leads a monthly virtual support group for trauma survivors, offering a safe space for recovery and connection after discharge. Her efforts often extend beyond UAB – for example, she identified local mental health resources for a support group member living in Tuscaloosa.
In addition to her clinical work, Pettway organized a professional clothing drive in collaboration with the Offender Alumni Association, a Violence Intervention and Prevention Partners Program (VIP) organization. The drive collected more than 240 articles of clothing to support individuals preparing for job interviews and workforce reentry.
“It’s a privilege to walk alongside patients in some of their most vulnerable moments,” Pettway said. “I believe healing is not just physical, but it is emotional and psychological, too. I’m grateful to be part of a team that values trauma-informed care and community connection.”
About the UAB Social Work Month Awards
Each year, UAB Medicine honors outstanding social workers across the health system whose work exemplifies the highest standards of compassion, collaboration and service. The Community Service Award recognizes individuals who go beyond their daily responsibilities to address unmet needs and positively impact both the hospital and the greater community. This internal recognition reflects UAB’s commitment to fostering a culture of patient-centered care.