LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 26, 2026) — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is proud to announce the promotion of Aubrey Jones, Ph.D., to associate professor with tenure, recognizing her work that strengthens healthcare systems and expands access to care.
Jones has developed a growing research portfolio focused on improving health outcomes through innovative, community-engaged approaches. Her work spans maternal and postpartum health, behavioral health systems and rural health disparities, addressing critical gaps in care and advancing more accessible, effective support for individuals and families.
“Dr. Jones’ work reflects the mission of the College in action, advancing research that directly impacts communities while preparing the next generation of social work leaders,” said Jackie Duron, Ph.D., associate dean of faculty advancement. “Her continued dedication to research, teaching and mentorship represents the very best of our field.”
Since joining CoSW in 2021, Jones has built a strong portfolio of interdisciplinary research rooted in applied practice and real-world impact. Her work examines maternal and child health, behavioral health, access to care and rural health disparities, with a focus on improving outcomes for families during the perinatal and postpartum period.
Jones’ recent work has explored digital postpartum support systems, expanding access to care for new mothers through innovative, technology-driven interventions. Jones also received a UL1 Pilot Award to address gaps in postpartum care for women with gestational diabetes, helping improve support and long-term outcomes during a critical stage of maternal health.
“Supporting women’s health—particularly reproductive health—has been at the core of my research for years,” said Jones. “Gestational diabetes not only impacts women during pregnancy, but it sets the stage for lifelong health challenges if care is overlooked. This study seeks to understand why critical gaps persist and how we can ensure women get the care they need to thrive, not just in the short term, but for years to come.”
Extending beyond maternal health into behavioral health and justice systems, Jones has contributed to evaluation efforts on Kentucky’s Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) program that demonstrated reductions in hospitalizations and healthcare costs, highlighting the effectiveness of community-based approaches to care.
In addition to her research, Jones plays an important leadership role within the College. She recently served as acting director of the Ph.D. program, where she supported doctoral student development and helped shape the future of social work research and scholarship.
Her impact has also been recognized beyond the University. Jones was nominated for the Community Action Council’s 2025 Unapologetically Woman series, honoring women making meaningful contributions in their communities through leadership and service.
Jones is also a member of the University’s fourth Research Scholars Program cohort and served as a 2024–2025 Community Engaged Research Fellow, further reflecting her commitment to connecting academic research with community impact.
Through her teaching, mentorship and scholarship, Jones remains committed to preparing students to engage in research and practice that addresses complex social challenges.
The promotion to associate professor with tenure recognizes not only her academic achievements, but also her continued impact on communities, systems and the future of social work.