Social work faculty’s research gets presidential-level funding
Two VCU School of Social Work professors’ research has been recognized at the highest university level, earning financial support from the 2019 Presidential Research Quest Fund.
In total, 18 university projects were selected this fall and will share in $500,000 from the fund, along with additional dollars from the schools and departments of faculty awardees.
Social work assistant professor Kyeongmo Kim, Ph.D., was funded for “Effects of Residential Segregation on Older Adults’ Use of Mental Health Services.” The research examines the complex phenomenon of segregation that limits resources for mental health care as well as opportunities for education and employment. Findings will contribute to policies and future interventions to increase the planning and uptake of mental health services for older racial and ethnic minority adults.
Social work associate professor M. Alex Wagaman, Ph.D., was a co-principal investigator on “Housing Stability from the Ground Up: Youth Empowerment through Eviction Research.” Wagaman has done extensive research and service in the field of youth homelessness and housing instability. Her co-PI was Kathryn Howell, Ph.D., of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.
“The awardees represent a diversity of disciplines, but they share a common focus. Their commitment to improving the human condition through research that is dedicated to social, economic and health success is a unifying link that will benefit those living in Virginia and around the world,” says VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D.
Previously, social work assistant professor Shelby E. McDonald, Ph.D., had her research project, “Companion Animals in the Context of LGBTQ+ Youth Wellbeing,” funded by the research quest program.
Categories Faculty and staff, Research