In Memory of Kim Archuletta

Kim Archuletta, LCSW, received her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Diego State University (SDSU).  Kim served as the Director of Undergraduate Field Education and as a lecturer in the undergraduate social work program.  Kim also served in SDSU’s Student Grievances Committee, Faculty Right Committee and was representative of the California Faculty Association.  Kim’s leadership contributed to the beginning of Lobby Days and Aztecs for Recovery, she never shied away from a challenge.  Her fierce spirit and kind heart knocked down numerous doors and opened up windows of opportunities for students and colleagues. Many at the School of Social Work remember her as a mentor and supportive friend.  

Kim was a field instructor for 15 years prior to coming to SDSU. Kim’s interest in working with interns began while working at the University of California San Diego, Options for Recovery Program; she supervised new social work interns and realized how much she enjoyed encouraging students and being witness to their professional growth.  She began her journey at SDSU as a field faculty in 2006 and enjoyed working with undergraduate students.  She loved their passion and drive, “they continue to inspire me and remind me of the importance of the work that we do.” She enjoyed seeing her students grow professionally and every year she would tell her new students, “you will not be the same person sitting before me, you will all change and that is always true.”  She enjoyed learning about her student’s experiences in their end-of-year evaluations, “I see their growth and confidence as emerging social workers.”  Her advice to all students entering the field was, “fake it ’til you make it.” However, Kim was always sincere in her love for family, friends, and students.

Those of us who had the privilege of working with Kim will miss her friendship, mentorship, kindness, and vibrant personality. Her beautiful smile and unique laugh remind us of how much she valued connection, laughter, and love. Her passing is painful, but we take some comfort in knowing she was able to retire and fully enjoy her family, especially her two grandbabies. We will miss you, Kim.

SISTAH FRIEND
For Kim Archuletta, LCSW
©copyright March 2018 Sylvia Cameron Telafaro

Time passes. Life happens. distance separates.
Love waxes and wanes. Men don’t do
what they’re supposed to do.
Hearts break, Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors, Careers end.
salaries get lean, BUT……..

Sistah Friends are always there,
no matter how much time and how
many miles are between you.
A sistah friend is never farther away
than needing her can reach.

Sometimes, a Sistah Friend will even break the rules
and decide to walk beside you…
even though you are in the line of fire,
if necessary they will just come in and carry you out.

Kim, You have become my Sistah Friend.
Sometimes we take friends for granted
and forget to say thank you.

I don’t know how else to say this,
I thank you very much
for always being there for me
with your gentle, friendly touch
You helped me to get better
and stop what I regret
you helped me through the hard times
that, I can’t forget.
thank you.

You listened to my problems
in a kind and caring way
and without you
I may not be smiling today
thank you.

I trust you with my secrets
that no one has been told
I trust you with my feelings
and in my heart, your words I’ll take
until I’m grey and old
thank you.

I hope you continue to inspire
and soar, even if we don’t see
each other any more,
you will always be
my Sistah Friend.