Professor named fellow of American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare

Bruce Thyer, a professor in the College of Social Work at Florida State University, has been named a fellow of the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare, one of the most prestigious honors that social work scholars can receive.

In selecting Thyer for the honor, the academy recognized his scholarship in a range of areas — including evidence-based practice, mental health, substance abuse, program evaluation and research methods — and his role as editor of the journal Research on Social Work Practice,one of the field’s most respected peer-reviewed publications.

“The academy’s induction of Dr. Thyer is also an honor for FSU and the College of Social Work,” said James Clark, dean of the College of Social Work. “Bruce’s colleagues and students have known for a long time that he is a wonderful scholar and educator.”

Thyer said, “This recognition reflects upon the wonderful resources made available by Florida State University in supporting the activities of faculty in scholarship, instruction and research. I am very grateful to be associated with such an outstanding institution.”

Over his distinguished 32-year career, Thyer has been a prolific researcher and author, writing numerous peer-reviewed articles and publications. His most recent book, “Program Evaluation: An Introduction to an Evidence-based Approach” was published by Cengage Publications in 2015 and is now in its sixth edition.

Thyer has held academic and administrative positions at numerous universities. He first joined the faculty at Florida State as an assistant professor of social work in 1984 and was promoted to associate professor in 1986-1987. After 15 years at the University of Georgia, Thyer returned to Florida State as professor of social work in 2002 and served as dean of the College of Social Work for three years.

A licensed clinical social worker in Florida and Georgia and board-certified behavioral analyst, he earned a doctorate in social work and psychology from the University of Michigan in 1982.