The College of Health Sciences welcomes David Becerra as the School of Social Work divisional dean, starting July 1.
Becerra is currently an associate professor, director of the Office of Latino Projects and Southwest Borderlands Scholar for the School of Social Work at Arizona State University in Phoenix. His research focuses on social justice and the well-being of Latinos, particularly in the areas of immigration, health and education, and has been cited in several court briefs and decisions in the last 10 years.
“I am extremely excited to join the Boise State University School of Social Work,” Becerra said. “The school has strong undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare future generations of social workers not just to work with communities in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest, but also throughout the United States as a result of the highly ranked online Master of Social Work program.”
In addition to his research and faculty roles, Becerra also served as the associate director of academic affairs for Arizona State’s School of Social Work for nearly three years. He earned his Master of Social Work and doctorate degrees from Arizona State.
“Dr. Becerra has the unique combination of experiences and skills in teaching, research and service that makes him a strong candidate for this role,” Tim Dunnagan, dean of the College of Health Sciences said. “Furthermore, he has valuable leadership and management experiences and skills needed for this role.”
Becerra noted the balance of research and teaching among faculty, the collaboration offered as being a part of the College of Health Sciences, and the support of the community on and off campus as factors which place the School of Social work in a strong position to affect change.
“I’m excited to help build upon previous efforts to expand access, educational opportunities and support to students, as well as promote solutions-oriented research to address issues and challenges facing diverse populations and communities,” he said.