Silver Faculty Recognized for Scientific Excellence
It has been an exciting time for faculty members Dr. Michael Lindsey and Dr. Michelle Munson. Each of them has been recognized for their scientific leadership in the social work field.
Dr. Michael Lindsey was invited to serve a four-year term on the National Advisory Council for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP). The council seeks to provide support to states and local communities in the development of evidence-based prevention programs that target local needs, promote family and youth independence from substance abuse, improvement in health outcomes, and change perspectives around substance use.
Lindsey says he is “thrilled to accept the Secretary’s nomination for such a prestigious position.” He is most interested in bringing a behavioral health lens and adolescent mental health focus to the council.
“I care deeply about issues of substance abuse and mental health,” Lindsey shared. He continued by saying, “When you see their effects on communities firsthand, you’re more likely to speak up.” Lindsey’s role on the council will include reviewing and approving proposed grants for projects around substance abuse prevention and mental health services.
Lindsey is passionate about connecting his critical studies of these issues to his work on the council to make real improvements, particularly for black adolescents and communities of color.
Dr. Michelle Munson was selected to serve a term on the Research Board of the National Mentoring Resource Center and as a Fellow of the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR).
Research Board of the National Mentoring Resource Center
The Research Board of the National Mentoring Resource Center works with both the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and MENTOR: the National Mentoring Partnership. Munson is among a select group of national and international mentoring scholars, whom she will collaborate with on a series of scholarly projects and international implementation efforts around youth mentoring. This year, the board will focus on mentoring for young people with mental health challenges, and Munson will take a leadership role in reviewing best practices for engaging this population.
Munson notes, "Mentoring has been an integral part of my life since my childhood, and remains a foundational component in the programs. I design interventions to assist youth and young adults. For a variety of reasons, young people can benefit from the presence of a caring adult who is safe, connected, and often can provide a new perspective on the world. The invitation to join this select group of leaders in the field of mentoring is a true honor for me," Munson notes.
Society for Social Work and Research Fellowship
SSWR established the fellowship to recognize current SSWR members for their individual accomplishments, leadership, and contribution to SSWR, as a scientific society. Fellows serve as role models and mentors for individuals pursuing careers in social work research, and they advance the Society's mission.