Stephanie Boddie, Ph.D., has been named the first holder of the Diana R. Garland Endowed Chair in Child and Family Studies at Baylor University's Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. This prestigious appointment recognizes Boddie's significant contributions to the field of social work and her dedication to research focused on vulnerable populations.

The endowed chair, named in honor of the late Diana R. Garland, a renowned scholar and advocate for family well-being, will provide Boddie with resources to expand her research and teaching initiatives. Boddie's work focuses on the intersection of faith, poverty, and community development, with a particular emphasis on the role of congregations and faith-based organizations in addressing social issues. Her research has explored topics such as childhood poverty, food insecurity, and the impact of social policies on marginalized communities.

The appointment signals a significant investment in the School of Social Work's commitment to advancing knowledge and promoting social justice. According to Dean Lynne Ryan, Boddie's expertise will be invaluable in shaping the future of social work education and research at Baylor.

The endowed chair will enable Boddie to mentor students, collaborate with other researchers, and disseminate her findings to a wider audience. Her research is expected to inform policy decisions and improve the lives of children and families facing adversity.

Looking ahead, Boddie plans to use the endowed chair to launch new research projects, expand community partnerships, and develop innovative approaches to addressing complex social problems. Her work promises to have a lasting impact on the field of social work and the well-being of vulnerable populations.