Lexington, KY. (June 04, 2024). Dean Jay Miller today announced the appointment of Matt Moore as the new Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW). Moore will succeed Dr. Kalea Benner, who has been named the next Dean of Social Work at Indiana University.
In his new role, Moore will oversee all aspects of academic and student affairs, including the development, implementation, and evaluation of curricula, student support services, and faculty assignments. His extensive background in higher education and administration will be instrumental in advancing the College’s mission of providing quality academic and professional experiences for students and faculty.
“The UK College of Social Work is among the most innovative, supportive, and academically progressive programs in the country,” said Moore. “I am excited to work alongside such dedicated faculty, staff, and students as we build on these foundations be remaining focused on quality education and creative community partnerships.”
Moore will certainly have a strong foundation on which to build.
Earlier this year, Dean Miller announced that CoSW’s online Master of Social Work (MSW) became among the first in the country to be reviewed and certified for quality. As part of ongoing workforce development efforts, CoSW has launched an array of targeted partnerships, including the 4-H Behavioral Camp Fellowship, School Social Work Fellowship Program, and the mental and behavioral healthcare fellowship initiatives with Appalachian Regional Health and UK King’s Daughter, to name a few.
Moore will bring a wealth of experience to his new role. In addition to this extensive academic experience, Moore brings a wealth of research and service experience to CoSW. Moore is the Co-Founder and Past President of the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports (ASWIS) and the Founding Editor for the Sport Social Work Journal (SSWJ), the only peer-reviewed journal with an emphasis on sport social work in the world. Additionally, Moore has co-created the Sport Social Work Certificate Program and the Annual Sport Social Work Symposium through ASWIS. He wrote the first-ever textbook on sport social work and served on the National Collegiate Athletic Association Task Force for Sleep Disorders.
Outside of academia, Moore has 17 years of competitive tennis coaching experience, including work at Butler University, Anderson University, and at Miami University. He has earned three Coach of the Year awards through the Hoosier Crossroads Conference and the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference.
Moore replaces Dr. Kalea Benner, who has made significant contributions to CoSW during her tenure. Dr. Benner played a pivotal role in launching new programs and leading the ongoing development of existing ones. Her commitment to quality education and professional experiences for students and faculty has left an indelible mark on the College.
“Make no mistake, Dr. Benner’s impact on CoSW has been immeasurable. Her work has impacted countless people, and her legacy will continue to inspire and shape the direction of CoSW for years to come.” said Dean Miller. “We certainly look forward to engaging with Dr. Moore to build on and advance the legacy of our College, our University, and our Commonwealth.”
Moore formally assumed his role on June 3, 2024.