Emily Houp, Author at University of Kentucky College of Social Work

Decorative image with design of a mother holding her child, surrounded by flowers

Social Work faculty advances research on digital postpartum support systems

Lexington, KY (June 27, 2024) – Depression and anxiety are serious mental health concerns for many new mothers, with postpartum depression (PPD) being the most common complication associated with childbirth. Dr. Aubrey Jones, an associate professor at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, has recently published a study exploring the impact of digital connection among new mothers.

This research, titled “Creating, Connecting, and Communicating: A look at social support for postpartum women,” offers an in-depth look at the formation, activities, and evaluation of an online support group for mothers within three months postpartum.

Co-authored by Diana Frankenburger, MSN, a childbirth educator with UK Healthcare, the study is centered around “Fourth Trimester Support Group,” a weekly Zoom meeting designed to provide a communal space for new mothers to discuss their experiences.

“As a woman becomes a mother, her relationships change and her priorities shift, often leading to a need for new or different relationships in her life,” the authors write. “For first-time mothers, this can be especially important.”

To recruit participants, UK hospital’s marketing team developed flyers, posted sign-up links on the hospital website, and advertised the group in birth education classes. Each support group session began with participants sharing their birth stories, a ritual that helped to foster a sense of community and belonging, and one that gives important context for how their motherhood journey began, and what support they might need.

“On occasion, a new attendee may have a traumatic birth story, and the facilitators will check in with the attendee or refer them to other group members with similar stories to offer support” Jones said. “Postpartum mental health is complex. It’s important that anyone facilitating a group like this has professional training if circumstances arise that need extra layers of support or even intervention.”

Jones’ extensive research portfolio emphasizes health equity for women and families, particularly in rural settings. She recently co-authored “Over the Hills and Through the Hollers: how one program is assisting residents in Appalachia with opioid use recovery” published in the Journal of Appalachian Health alongside colleague Dr. Aaron Brown.

Jones is also a member of the 4th cohort of the Research Scholars Program (RSP), which focuses on transforming healthcare perspectives based on the University of Kentucky’s health-related transdisciplinary Research Priority Areas (cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes & obesity, equity, neuroscience, and substance use).

“In conclusion, the journey into motherhood is a profound transition marked by joy, uncertainty, and significant changes in identity” Jones writes. “I’m hopeful that this research can provide a framework for advancing postpartum healthcare perspectives. Through reflective evaluation and continuous refinement, online support groups can adapt to meet the evolving needs of participants.”

June 27, 2024

Social Work’s Tarkington Newman Honored with Sport Social Work Legacy Award.

Lexington, KY (June 20, 2024) – The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (COSW) is proud to announce that Dr. Tarkington Newman, a distinguished faculty member and Director of the CoSW Sport Social Research Work Lab has been honored with the prestigious Sport Social Work Legacy Award.

Through his core research, Newman is looking at how sport can foster places where learning can occur, particularly related to social justice.

Newman has been a trailblazer in integrating social work principles into the realm of sports, advocating for the well-being and development of athletes at all levels. His pioneering research and practice in sport social work have significantly impacted youth development, particularly through recreational activities.

The award, given by the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports (ASWIS), highlights Newman’s innovative approaches and dedication to fostering environments where young people can thrive both on and off the field.

“It is an honor to help advance sport social work as a unique specialization within our profession, but I’m just building upon the foundation laid by trailblazers, including colleagues like Dr. Moore,” Dr. Newman said. “Research that explores the unique role of sport social workers—as licensed mental health professionals—is a critical next step as we continue to advocate for mental and behavioral health promotion among athletic communities.”

As the director of the Sport Social Work Research Lab, Newman has led numerous initiatives exploring the profound impact of recreation on youth development. His work has provided valuable insights into how sports can be leveraged as a tool for positive social change, promoting physical, mental, and emotional health among young athletes.

Newman’s has been instrumental in developing educational programs and professional opportunities for aspiring sport social workers at UK and beyond. His work will continue to ensure that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and skills to continue advancing the field.

June 20, 2024

Dr. Matt Moore Honored with Sport Social Work Legacy Award

Lexington, KY (June 18, 2024) – The UK College of Social Work (CoSW) proudly announces that Dr. Matt Moore, newly appointed Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, has been honored with the prestigious Sport Social Work Legacy Award by the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports (ASWIS). This accolade recognizes Moore’s outstanding contributions and innovations in the field of sport social work.

Moore, who recently transitioned to his new role at CoSW, has made significant strides in the integration of social work practices within sports. His efforts have been pivotal in the development of ASWIS, the establishment of the Sport Social Work Journal, and the creation of various educational opportunities for professionals in this growing field.

ASWIS has been at the forefront of integrating social work principles into sports, promoting the well-being of athletes and supporting professionals who work in the industry. This award was introduced to honor exceptional contributions to research and practice.

“This award is a testament to the collective efforts of many dedicated individuals within ASWIS,” said Moore. “Our work in promoting the integration of social work and sports is just beginning, and I am excited about the future advancements we will achieve together.”

Outside of academia, Moore has 17 years of competitive tennis coaching experience, including work at Butler University, Anderson University, and at Miami University. He has earned three Coach of the Year awards through the Hoosier Crossroads Conference and the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference.

As Associate Dean, Moore is set to bring his extensive experience and passion for social work into his new responsibilities, overseeing academic and student affairs. His role will involve spearheading initiatives aimed at enriching the educational environment and supporting the holistic development of students at CoSW.

“The UK College of Social Work is among the most innovative, supportive, and academically progressive programs in the country,” said Moore. “I am excited to work alongside such dedicated faculty, staff, and students as we build on these foundations be remaining focused on quality education and creative community partnerships.”

June 18, 2024

Associate dean, faculty receive sport social work legacy awards

Union, NJ (June 17, 2024) – In a milestone celebration marking the 10-year anniversary of the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports (ASWIS), Drs. Matt Moore and Tarkington Newman were honored with the inaugural Sport Social Work Legacy Award at the annual symposium gala.

Recently appointed Associate Dean of Student and Academic Affairs, Moore was honored with the Sport Social Work Legacy award for his overall impact on the field. His contributions include co-developing ASWIS, establishing the Sport Social Work Journal, and creating many educational opportunities in sport social work.

Moore’s innovative approaches and commitment to the field have left a legacy and have been pivotal in advancing the profession.

Newman, Director of the Sport Social Work Research Lab, received the award in recognition of the lab’s outstanding contributions to sport social work research. Their work has been instrumental in investigating the use of sport and recreation to promote positive youth development. Further, Newman’s research dedicated to advancing sport social work practice has provided valuable insights and has helped shape the future of interprofessional mental/behavioral healthcare teams, particularly within collegiate athletics.

The awards presented to Moore and Newman underscore their dedication, innovation, and profound influence on the profession, as well as the college’s commitment to excellence in all areas of social work.

As the field of sport social work continues to evolve, the contributions of pioneers like Moore and Newman will undoubtedly inspire future generations of social workers dedicated to integrating the principles of social work within the realm of sports. Their legacy will continue to shape the future of the profession, promoting the well-being of athletes and supporting the professionals who serve them.

June 17, 2024

Dean Jay Miller honored for community impact on children, families

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 12, 2024) — Justin “Jay” Miller, dean of the College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky, is a 2024 recipient of International Trends and Services Community Champion Award.

The award, given by Lexington/Frankfort Chapter of The Links Inc., is recognition of Miller’s significant contributions to promoting the well-being of children and families.

“I am extremely honored, humbled and grateful to receive the 2024 International Trends and Services Community Champion Award,” Miller said. “Of course, a recognition of this magnitude is never about any one person. It takes community to serve the community.”

Miller is dedicated to a wide array of community outreach and social issues — a passion he brings to his work as an educator and scholar. His research and academic interests focus on child welfare and youth involvement in juvenile systems.

Miller is also actively involved in a variety of workplace wellness initiatives. In 2017, he founded the Self-Care Lab (SCL) — specifically dedicated to empirically investigating self-care among helping professionals, including social workers, educators, law enforcement officers, nurses and teachers, among others. Through this work, Miller demonstrates his commitment to address potentially toxic employment conditions and improve work-life balance. Earlier this year, he also launched an SCL in Europe.

The impact of Miller’s work has been recognized regionally, nationally and internationally. Last fall, he received the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Distinguished Recent Contributions in Social Work Education Award.

Additionally, Miller is a past recipient of the Paul Grannis Award, Sunny Andrews Award and the Supporting the Workforce Award from the U.S. Children’s Bureau, among other recognitions.

“Each day, I find myself fortunate for the opportunity to engage with an amazing network of individuals to effect change,” he said. “While approaches to actualizing that change may differ, there is a singular concept that binds us all: No matter where one is employed, we all work for the community. This award is a testament to that work and the community it takes to do it.”

Miller will be honored during the Emerald Gala on June 14 in Lexington.

As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It’s all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.

In 2022, UK was ranked by Forbes as one of the “Best Employers for New Grads” and named a “Diversity Champion” by INSIGHT into Diversity, a testament to our commitment to advance Kentucky and create a community of belonging for everyone. While our mission looks different in many ways than it did in 1865, the vision of service to our Commonwealth and the world remains the same. We are the University for Kentucky.

June 12, 2024

Dean Jay Miller Announces Appointment of Dr. Matt Moore as Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs

Lexington, KY. (June 04, 2024). Dean Jay Miller today announced the appointment of Matt Moore as the new Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW). Moore will succeed Dr. Kalea Benner, who has been named the next Dean of Social Work at Indiana University.

In his new role, Moore will oversee all aspects of academic and student affairs, including the development, implementation, and evaluation of curricula, student support services, and faculty assignments. His extensive background in higher education and administration will be instrumental in advancing the College’s mission of providing quality academic and professional experiences for students and faculty.

Moore will certainly have a strong foundation on which to build.

Earlier this year, Dean Miller announced that CoSW’s online Master of Social Work (MSW) became among the first in the country to be reviewed and certified for quality. As part of ongoing workforce development efforts, CoSW has launched an array of targeted partnerships, including the 4-H Behavioral Camp Fellowship, School Social Work Fellowship Program, and the mental and behavioral healthcare fellowship initiatives with Appalachian Regional Health and UK King’s Daughter, to name a few.

Moore will bring a wealth of experience to his new role. In addition to this extensive academic experience, Moore brings a wealth of research and service experience to CoSW. Moore is the Co-Founder and Past President of the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports (ASWIS) and the Founding Editor for the Sport Social Work Journal (SSWJ), the only peer-reviewed journal with an emphasis on sport social work in the world. Additionally, Moore has co-created the Sport Social Work Certificate Program and the Annual Sport Social Work Symposium through ASWIS. He wrote the first-ever textbook on sport social work and served on the National Collegiate Athletic Association Task Force for Sleep Disorders.

Moore replaces Dr. Kalea Benner, who has made significant contributions to CoSW during her tenure. Dr. Benner played a pivotal role in launching new programs and leading the ongoing development of existing ones. Her commitment to quality education and professional experiences for students and faculty has left an indelible mark on the College.

“Make no mistake, Dr. Benner’s impact on CoSW has been immeasurable. Her work has impacted countless people, and her legacy will continue to inspire and shape the direction of CoSW for years to come.” said Dean Miller. “We certainly look forward to engaging with Dr. Moore to build on and advance the legacy of our College, our University, and our Commonwealth.”

Moore formally assumed his role on June 3, 2024.

June 4, 2024

Social Work Advisors Inspire Students to Dream Big

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 3, 2024) — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (COSW) is taking innovative steps to help students align their life purposes and explore their dreams through the Dream Exploration Workshop. Launched on April 15, 2024, this workshop is an integral part of COSW’s advising initiatives aimed at fostering both personal and professional growth among its students.

The Dream Exploration Workshop encourages participants to delve into their core motivations and aspirations. Guided through a series of thought-provoking activities and discussions, students articulate their “why” — the foundational purpose driving their dreams.

This workshop part of a broader development initiative supported by the College’s Innovation in Ingenuity and Initiative Program (I3). Last summer, advisors earned their Appreciative Advising certification, which prioritizes the ‘dream phase’ in advising students.

“I believe it’s crucial for students to stay connected to their purpose and keep their dreams and goals at the forefront of their journey,” said advisor Sara Green, who led the workshop. “By staying true to what inspired them to pursue social work, they can ignite a passion that drives them through their education and into their future careers.”

One of the workshop’s highlights is the viewing of Pepper de Callier’s TedTalk, “Pursuing Your Dreams Means Much More Than You Think.” This inspiring presentation sets the tone for the day’s activities, prompting students to reflect deeply on their ambitions.

The workshop agenda includes identifying dreams, sharing personal motivations, and exploring the feelings associated with one’s purpose. Participants engage in breakout sessions and collaborative discussions, solidifying their understanding and commitment to their goals.

“This workshop helped me to look deeper into my purpose; I loved it. I wouldn’t change anything,” shared one attendee. This sentiment is echoed by many students who found the workshop both enlightening and motivating.

Another participant expressed gratitude, stating, “I really enjoyed this! Thank you so much for sharing all of this information.”

The Dream Exploration Workshop goes beyond self-reflection to provide practical support. Eudaimonia, a concept rooted in Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, serves as the philosophical backbone of the workshop. It emphasizes the pursuit of the good life — one of purpose and fulfillment, rather than mere material success.

The College of Social Work continues to be a leader in student support and development, helping students realize their potential and achieve their dreams. The Dream Exploration Workshop is a testament to COSW’s commitment to holistic student success.

For more information about upcoming workshops and advising services, visit the COSW Academic Advising.

June 3, 2024

UK and FCPS Fellowship Program Partnership Shows Impact After First Year

Story by Emily Houp and Breanna Williams.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 30th, 2024) — As the number of young people diagnosed with mental and behavioral health conditions grows, school systems across the country are faced with the challenges of addressing complex student needs. Often, mental and behavioral health professionals can struggle to adequately address those needs and finding the time and resources to get professional development can be challenging.

But, a unique partnership between the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW), College of Education (CoE), and Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS) is helping to address those challenges.

In 2022, CoSW led the three in launching the FCPS School Social Work Fellowship. The online program, which meets Kentucky’s mandated requirements for certification, focuses on equipping participants with specialized practices and skills to address the diverse behavioral and mental health needs of students across all grade levels.

Thus far, it seems the fellowship is doing just that.

Jessica McCoy, part of the inaugural fellowship cohort, shared that her time in the program was both “rewarding and inspiring”. As a graduate student working in a public-school student support role, she entered the program looking to garner a deeper understanding of how to respond to the increasingly complex challenges of working in a public school system.

“Thanks to this fellowship, I earned my school social work certification and was able to adapt to the public education environment while building stronger connections within it,” McCoy shared.

For many local school social workers, the opportunity to advance education, particularly through specialized certifications, can be cost and time prohibitive. The modality and investment in the UK-FCPS partnership model help to mitigate those challenges.

“To be clear, this fellowship program addresses two distinct, yet interconnected challenges for Kentucky,” explained Dr. Jay Miller, dean of CoSW. “First, it builds the skillset of practitioners and prepares them to more adeptly support their students. Second, it addresses critical workforce recruitment and retention needs pertaining to mental and behavioral health professionals.”

Jordan Bentley, another first-cohort fellow, agrees.

Bentely described the fellowship as a “practical path forward” in his career and credits the fellowship credential with offering stability in his professional roe. Bentley is now a Mental Health Specialist at Wellington Elementary.

As needs continue to grow, there are no plans on the UK-FCPS partnership slowing down.

“We are truly grateful to the University of Kentucky and Dean Jay Miller for providing this amazing opportunity that opens a path for our team members to obtain their certification in school social work,” Dr. Demetrus Liggins, FCPS superintendent, said. “As part of our commitment to serving the whole child, Fayette County Public Schools is actively seeking to build the number of employees who hold this endorsement.”

Since its inception, the partnership has supported practitioners at Wellington Elementary, Maxwell Elementary, Coventry Oak, and Clay Mills Elementary, to name a few.

The next cohort of FCPS School Social Work Fellows will begin Summer 2024.

May 30, 2024

Dean Appoints New Director of BASW Undergraduate Studies

Lexington, KY. (May 30, 2024). Dean Jay Miller today announced that Dr. Shelita Jackson has been appointed Director of BASW Undergraduate Studies (DUS). In this role, Dr. Jackson will oversee all aspects of undergraduate planning, to include the development, implementation, and evaluation of curricula and faculty assignments. As well, Dr. Jackson will also co-lead EURO, the College’s undergraduate research initiative.

Jackson replaces Dr. ZaDonna Slay, who served as acting DUS during the 23-24 academic term. During her tenure, Dr. Slay worked on several initiatives including the BASW Student Ambassador Program and a Social Work Bridge Program for aspiring middle/high school students.

“On behalf of CoSW, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Slay,” said Miller. “During her time as acting director, she continued the upward trajectory of the BASW program and contributed to setting the foundation for a host of programmatic aspects on which to build in the future.”

Dr. Jackson comes to her new role with a wealth of professional experience in social work education, policy and practice. Prior to coming to UK, Dr. Jackson was integral in the successful launch of Eastern University’s (EU) online Master of Social Work Program, including complete oversight of the initial accreditation process. At Eastern University (EU), Dr. Jackson was a member of the President’s Special Committee on Diversity, Equity and Belonging and a member of the College of Health Sciences Dean’s Council. In addition, Dr. Jackson served as Director of the Social Work Department at the University of Pennsylvania’s L.I.F.E program. She holds a BSW degree from Eastern University, a MSW from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice, and a DSW from the University of St. Thomas.

Dr. Jackson’s appointment as DUS takes effect on June 1, 2024.

May 30, 2024

“Over the Hills and Through the Hollers”: Faculty Research Aids Appalachian Recovery Programs

Lexington, KY (May 21st, 2024) – In the heart of Appalachia, a culturally rich region hard-hit by the opioid epidemic, the Kentucky Access to Recovery Program (KATR) is making significant strides in supporting individuals in their recovery journey. Faculty at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) have played a crucial role by evaluating its impacts through rigorous research.

KATR, operating across several counties in Eastern Kentucky, provides essential services to those recovering from opioid addiction. Drs. Aubrey Jones and Aaron Brown, along with their colleage Dr. Jayme Walters (Utah State University), focused their research on assessing how well the program enhances access to these critical recovery services and supports. Their study, titled “Over the Hills and Through the Hollers: How One Program is Assisting Residents of Appalachia with Opioid Use Recovery,” offers vital insights into the effectiveness of such interventions. Their work is published in the Journal of Appalachian Health.

“Understanding the impact of KATR is essential for optimizing our approach to recovery support in Appalachia,” Dr. Jones noted. “Our research aims to provide evidence-based feedback that can refine and strengthen the program, supporting its initiative to meet the needs of those it serves.”

Their evaluation methods involved an analysis of the program’s service delivery mechanisms and their alignment with the unique cultural and logistical needs of the Appalachian community. This approach not only highlights the successes but also identifies potential areas for improvement.

“Each community has its intrinsic strengths and challenges,” Brown explained. “In Appalachia, the robust community spirit can be a powerful ally in recovery efforts. By aligning our strategies with local values and resources, we can enhance the effectiveness of our interventions.”

Their work alongside KATR efforts exemplifies the critical role of applied research in the field of social work. By closely examining the real-world impacts of recovery programs, researchers can provide invaluable feedback that can lead to more effective health interventions, tailored to the specific needs of targeted populations.

Their research contributes not just to local improvements in Appalachia but also offers a model for similar regions across the country grappling with the opioid crisis. Through this dedicated analysis, Jones and Brown help pave the way for more effective, culturally sensitive recovery programs that can be adapted and implemented in other contexts facing similar challenges.

May 21, 2024

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