Symposium Editor's Introduction

• Published in: Journal of health and human services administration Vol. 43; no. 3; pp. 235 - 238
• Main Author: Cnaan, Ram A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 22.12.2020; Southern Public Administration Education Foundation, Inc; Southern Public Administration Education Foundation
• Subjects: Clergy; Collaboration; Community; Domestic violence; Drug use; Education; Human services; Leadership; Managers; Medicare; Nonprofit organizations; Perlmutter, Felice; Personality; Social work; Social workers; Students
• ISSN: 1079-3739; 2168-5509
• DOI: 10.37808/jhhsa.43.3.1

As the guest editor of this special issue, I found myself in an uncomfortable position. Most special issues have a theme and appeal to scholars or students interested in that special topic. This symposium however is dedicated to the work and academic influence of Felice Perlmutter, a friend, colleague, and professional leader. When the idea of devoting a symposium to her work on the pages of the Journal of health and Human Services Administration and to approach people who were influenced by her work and her personality was raised, I thought it was a great idea. When I was proposed as the guest editor, I was hesitant. It was only after Felice's husband; Daniel and her daughter Tova endorsed my candidacy that I acquiesced. Felice, known as Fagie by friends and relatives, was a wonderful human being and an intellectual maverick. I can best explain it with our personal interactions. I moved from Israel to the University of Pennsylvania as a visiting assistant professor and searched for people to collaborate with. It was recommended that I contact her. I did it wondering if the famous Felice Perlmutter would have time for me - she did. She heard my research ideas and collaborated with me in a series of articles. She was capable of both seeing the details and the big pictures. She was able to see logical flaws in our writing. She strived for conceptual clarity and theory building. And all along she accepted me and my family into her life. We met at her house and always had coffee with something to munch. We were invited to dinners, cultural events, and holiday parties. Her jovial and outgoing personality made everyone positive and engaged. Throughout my career and my personal life, she offered help, advice, and unbounded support.