Associate Professor Stacey Saunders-Adams named interim chair of Department of Social Work

Ohio University has appointed Stacey Saunders-Adams, associate professor of social work at the Chillicothe Campus, as interim chair of the Department of Social Work in the College of Health Sciences and Professions.

As a faculty member and co-director of Ohio's University Consortium for Child and Adult Services, Saunders-Adams combines her expertise with a heartfelt passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of social workers. She holds a Ph.D. in Social Work, a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Ohio University. 

“I am excited about this opportunity to shape the social workers of tomorrow further,” Saunders-Adams said. “I have loved Ohio University since my time as an undergraduate here and am looking forward to serving in this new role.”

As interim chair, Saunders-Adams will oversee all operations of the department, including faculty and staff development, budget management, curriculum advancement and program innovation. She will also serve on the College of Health Sciences and Professions Academic Leadership Council, promoting collaboration within and beyond the university.

“Dr. Saunders-Adams’ dedication to social work education and her commitment to building the profession through our regional campuses make her an ideal choice for this leadership role,” said Lewatis McNeal, Ohio University vice provost for regional higher education and partnerships. “We are excited for a faculty member from a regional campus to lead a university-wide department, and her appointment highlights the strength and expertise of our regional campus faculty. Her vision and experience as a student advocate and respected leader in the social work space will help strengthen the department and support students across the university.” 

Saunders-Adams was recognized as the OHIO Chillicothe Woman of Distinction in 2024 and the 2023 ADAMH Prevention Advocate of the Year. Her areas of expertise include substance abuse, research and evaluation, child welfare, and policy practice. Saunders-Adams’ love for teaching and her commitment to social justice drive her efforts to address complex social challenges and make a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable populations, both in the classroom and throughout the Chillicothe community. 

Michael Lafreniere, interim dean of campus and community relations at OHIO Chillicothe, shared his support for Dr. Saunders-Adams’ new appointment.

“She has the knowledge, experience, and skills required to lead the department as they prepare the next generation of social workers, and her appointment reflects the strength of our regional campus faculty," Lafreniere said.

Known for her dedication to evidence-based practices and innovative problem-solving, Saunders-Adams takes pride in fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment. 

Janet Simon, interim dean of the College of Health Sciences and Professions, said, “Dr. Saunders-Adams brings a deep commitment to student success, social justice, and community-engaged scholarship that aligns strongly with the mission of the College of Health Sciences and Professions. Her leadership experience, dedication to mentoring future social workers, and strong connection to both our regional campuses and broader university community position her well to guide the Department of Social Work during this important time. I look forward to working closely with Stacey as we continue to strengthen the department’s impact across Ohio University and beyond.”