Maggie Dreyer, LCSW-R, director of field education, MSW field director, and clinical assistant professor at Daemen University, is the recipient of the 2026 University at Buffalo (UB) School of Social Work Distinguished Alumni Award. 
The Distinguished Alumni Award honors outstanding University at Buffalo School of Social Work alumni who have made noteworthy contributions to social work practice and/or research and have added distinction to the social work profession through positivity and a drive to make a difference.
“I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the UB School of Social Work Distinguished Alumni Award than Maggie Dreyer,” said Dr. Diane Bessel, MSW program director and chair, social work and sociology at Daemen. “With more than 25 years of leadership in the profession, her work has transformed the lives of countless children and families across Western New York. From developing a region-wide therapeutic foster care program, to her clinical work supporting survivors of trauma, Maggie has consistently turned expertise into impact.”
Bessel added, “Her commitment extends beyond practice, through teaching, mentorship, and founding a nonprofit that supports young women facing cancer, and she exemplifies the very best of social work. This recognition is not only well deserved—it reflects a career defined by compassion, innovation, and a focus on lasting change.”
The award will be presented to Dreyer during the annual UB Alumni Achievement Awards ceremony on Sept. 24 at the UB Center for the Arts.