Four School of Social Work members honored at this year’s CEHD Spring Assembly

Four members of the School of Social Work were recently recognized for their outstanding contributions in research, service, and leadership. Dr. Joseph Merighi, Peggy Pond, Dr. Lynette Renner, and Bao Lee-Yang were each presented with an award during the Spring Assembly, held virtually on April 27. 

Joseph Merighi, PhD — acting interim director of the School, and (since 2013) faculty member— received the 2022 Educational Leadership Award. Said Drs. Megan Morrissey and Lynette Renner in their nomination of him: “Dr. Merighi’s many leadership achievements will have a long-term impact on the School and College. These are most evident by the integrated behavioral health training program he developed for MSW students, and the grant-writing course in CEHD he helped create.” Dr. Merighi was previously Director of Graduate Studies, and chair of the CEHD Curriculum Council Graduate Subcommittee, both in the School of Social Work.

Peggy Pond — an academic support services professional, and alumna of the School — received the Jeanne T. Lupton Civil Service and Bargaining Unit Service Award. Nominated by Dr. Megan Morrissey, Ms. Pond was recognized for her innovative approach to problem solving, and her consistent, high level of professionalism. This award honors, in name and legacy, the late Jeanne T. Lupton — former Dean of General College and noted advocate for women’s rights.

Lynette Renner, PhD is a nationally recognized scholar of interpersonal violence in domestic and school environments. Nominated by Dr. Joseph Merighi, Dr. Renner was granted the 2022 Excellence in Research award. “(Dr. Renner) has excelled in the areas of research and service,” said Dr. Merighi. “(Her) most notable accomplishments include leading two federally funded studies that investigated a truancy intervention program in Ramsey County and (instituting) an evidenced-based interpersonal violence screen at the M Health Clinics and Surgery Center.” Dr. Renner has been on faculty at the School since 2013.

Bao Lee-Yang was honored for her exceptional support of students, and her commitment to matters of pluralism, diversity, and representation within the School. A University alumna, Ms. Lee-Yang received the 2022 Excellence in Academic Advising Award — having been nominated by Dr. Katie Johnston-Goodstar, Director of Undergraduate Studies at the School.