Field Educator Spotlight

Ernestine Smith Davis

Ms. Davis has extensive experience with social work, welfare services, sociology and psychology. She retired from Miami Dade County Dept. of Human Services after completing thirty-five years of service. During her tenure with the County, Ms. Davis provided clinical services to numerous families. She also worked on county initiatives such as emergency housing, victims of domestic violence, intergenerational programming, parenting skills training and employment services.

Ms. Davis also worked as a psychotherapist with the University of Miami utilizing the person centered approach, family systems and brief strategic treatment models. She provided therapeutic services to HIV positive women and families of delinquent youth.

Ms. Davis received her MSW from Barry University in 1991.  She became a field educator with Barry in 1994 and joined the Barry team as a field advisor in August of 2010.  Ms. Davis became a field educator for Project Hope in Liberty City August 2011 and supervises BSW and MSW students.

Most Notable Accomplishments:

Honored by the Miami Dade County Board of County commissioners and Park and Recreation as an Honoree in the “Company of Women” for work with Intergenerational Mentoring Programs in Dade County.

Named Social Worker of the Year for Miami Dade County. Consistently displayed high levels of effective performance while coordinating a mentoring program matching high-risk youth and senior mentors.

Received Unsung Heroine for the City of Miami Commission on the Status of Women because of long time dedication and commitment to children and family welfare.

Additionally, received Clinical Field Instructor appointment for Barry University and Florida International University.

Ms. Davis is a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, a Clinically Certified Forensic Counselor, and a Certified Parenting Instructor.

Personal Accomplishments:

Ms. Davis is the current President of the Zonta Club of Greater Miami, District 11, Area 3, Club 149, which is part of The Zonta International Foundation. Their work is to Advance the Status of Women Worldwide.

Ms. Davis also attends Miami Vineyard Community Church, and is an active member on its Woman Ministry.

Ms. Davis is also the co-owner of her own business, “Life N Design”, this is a club in which young ladies are given instruction in: etiquette, manners, respect for self and others, fashion, art and craft, and how to have good clean fun.