The College of Social Work at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Douglas Coatsworth as Betsey Bush Endowed Professor in Behavioral Health and Associate Dean for Research. Dr. Coatsworth comes to UTK from Colorado State University, where he serves as professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies. With a PhD in clinical psychology, Dr. Coatsworth blends clinical and research skills to develop, implement and evaluate interventions that build resilience and reduce problem behaviors in children, youth and families.

“The Betsy Bush Endowed Professor in Behavioral Health at the College of Social Work is a wonderful fit for me,” said Coatsworth. “I have always worked in collaborative and interdisciplinary settings that have incorporated faculty and clinical/research staff from programs such as Human Development and Family Studies, Social Work, Psychology, Kinesiology, Occupational Therapy, and Extension, among others. I believe strongly that ‘team science’—research that relies on these interdisciplinary research teams—is the only way to bring the best science to confront the most challenging social problems faced by society today.”

College of Social Work Dean Lori Messinger expressed her excitement about bringing Dr. Coatsworth to join the leadership team at UTK. “Doug brings extensive experience with federal grants, including SAMHSA and NIDA-funded projects, to his new role as Associate Dean for Research. His knowledge and experience will help him support the development of the College’s scholarly enterprise. His warmth, approachability, and commitment to mentoring faculty and doctoral students will enable him to further develop our College’s vibrant research training environment.”

Dr. Coatsworth will join the faculty on August 1, 2020.