This article was originally published by UKNow.

Governor Andy Beshear has issued an executive order appointing Justin “Jay” Miller, dean of the College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky, to the Juvenile Justice Advisory Board (JJAB).

Federally mandated through the 1974 Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, JJAB ensures youth in the juvenile justice system have access to appropriate and effective programs and services.

Board members advise and propose evidence-based recommendations to the governor, policy makers and the public. The board also ensures state compliance with federal regulations.

Ultimately, JJAB seeks to improve the quality of life and reduce recidivism for youth involved in Kentucky’s justice system.

“It is truly an honor to serve on JJAB,” Miller said. “I look forward to engaging with the board, partners, and young people to support innovative system improvements that enhance youth and family experiences in the Commonwealth.”

Miller is dedicated to a variety of social issues — a passion he brings to his work as an educator and scholar.

More specifically, Miller has been conducting research and spearheading initiatives related to child welfare and system-involved youth for more than a decade. From 2016-17, Miller served on the Federal Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice at the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The committee was tasked with reviewing mandates associated with juvenile justice and making systems improvement recommendations to the U.S Congress and president.

Miller’s work has informed a myriad of policies and practices at local, state and federal levels.

He is also a past recipient of the Paul Grannis Award — Kentucky’s highest public child welfare practitioner honor. Miller’s work with young people has been recognized by the Association of School Social Workers, National Association of Social Workers and the U.S. Children’s Bureau, among others.