Mahonri “Mo” Sapiga, MSW, is a seasoned leader in public child welfare with over three decades of experience in frontline social work, program administration, and systems-level leadership. As Deputy Director for the Orange County Social Services Agency’s Children and Family Services Division, he has overseen vital programs including Emergency Response, Adult and Child Abuse Hotlines, and Family Maintenance Collaborative Services, leading over 250 staff in delivering trauma-informed, family-led, prevention based, community-centered care.

Mo currently serves as the UCLA, LA County DCFS Stipend Program Coordinator, supporting the development of future child welfare professionals through field education, advising, and academic mentoring.

He has taught MSW courses for over 17 years at CSU Long Beach and CSU Dominguez Hills, where he is known for fostering cultural humility, critical thinking, and applied skill development. Mo’s teaching is grounded in mentorship, coaching, and a commitment to professional excellence.

As an active advocate for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) communities, he has led numerous community engagement initiatives and presented nationally on equity in education, workforce development, and culturally responsive leadership and practice. Mo’s work centers on empowering marginalized communities and preparing a diverse, competent child welfare workforce.