Faculty & Research

When Home Changes, Support Shifts: What Research Can Tell Us About Mothers and Why Support Matters

A recent study published in Family Relations found that household structure composition and residential stability are factors that influence mothers’ perceptions of available supports. Data used from the Future of Families and Child Well-being, a national dataset following almost 5,000 families (mothers, fathers, and their children) from the child’s birth through young adulthood and beyond.

FSU College of Social Work Launches New Institute Focused on Justice and Health Innovation Research

The College of Social Work at Florida State University is establishing the Justice and Health Innovation Research Institute (JHI) to address disparities between the justice system and the fields of behavioral health and substance abuse care. 

The institute will draw from the college’s legacy of scholarship and instruction in substance use, behavioral health and criminal justice. 

FSU College of Social Work Dean Search 2026

Florida State University (FSU) invites nominations, expressions of interest, and applications for the position of Dean in the College of Social Work. The University seeks a dynamic and passionate leader and scholar who will advance social work research and support the College's mission of preparing professionals who enhance human well-being.

The University has retained WittKieffer to assist with this national search.

FSU Social Work and Florida Institute for Child Welfare Participate in AI Day in the Capital

On January 22, the FSU College of Law hosted the 2026 FSU AI Day in the Capital event, which brought together leaders in government, law, technology, and academia from across the university to examine the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for public institutions, civic infrastructure and ethical governance.

Remembering Dean and Faculty Member Ray Bardill

Dr. Donald Ray Bardill, who served as a social work faculty member at FSU and as a dean for the then School of Social Work (1979–1994), passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on November 23, 2025.

“Dean Bardill will be remembered as a pivotal person in shaping the College of Social Work at Florida State University,” reflected Dean David Springer. “He led by example through his commitment to service and clinical practice. Ray cared deeply about this community, and his spirit and legacy carry on through our collective work in the College.”