Mrs. Janet Burton

Dr. Janet Burton passed away on January 16th at her home in Washington D.C. after a long illness. She was 80 years old. Janet was born on July 8, 1940 and raised in New York City. She was the daughter of the late Harold and Mamye Burton who were loving parents. She is survived by her sisters, Harriet Alexander and Sylvia Roberts. She is also survived by her two nephews, Gary Alexander and William Roberts and her niece Pamela Roberts. Janet received her high school education at Mother Cabrini High School in New York City. Education was a primary focus of her life. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. Janet then earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Howard University. She then went on to continue her education by earning a Doctorate in Social Work from Howard University’s School of Social Work. After completing her graduate study, Janet worked in several positions. Her most important work was carried out when she was appointed as a full professor in the undergraduate Social Work Program at the University of the District of Columbia. Subsequently, for several years, she led the department as its Chairperson. She had a true passion and talent for preparing students to work with teenagers, the elderly, families and with communities with special needs. Throughout her career, Janet engaged in other professional activities. She often made presentations at national and local meetings that addressed issues related to the needs of the community. Over the years, she expanded her social work activities by serving as a private practitioner for several organizations. Janet was active in the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). From 2000 to 2003, she served as a regional representative on the NASW Board of Directors. Additionally. she was a past President of the NASW-Metro DC chapter and often assisted the chapter in its efforts to implement its programs. Janet engaged in other activities. She was especially fond of travelling to other countries. A favorite pastime included cooking wonderful meals and serving them to her friends and family members. Her family is forever grateful for her nephew, Gary Alexander, for caring for his aunt throughout her final illness.

Mrs. Janet Burton

July 8, 1940 - January 16, 2021