In April 2025, the Owens Institute for Behavioral Research (OIBR) proudly sponsored Dr. David Okech, one of OIBR’s Distinguished Scholars, to attend the Consortium of Social Science Associations (COSSA) Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. The annual event brings together researchers from across the country to advocate for continued federal investment in social and behavioral science.

Dr. Okech is the Georgia Athletics Association Professor of Human Trafficking Implementation Research at the University of Georgia and the founding director of the Center for Human Trafficking Research & Outreach (CenHTRO).

This marked Dr. Okech’s first time participating in COSSA Advocacy Day, though he had prior experience advocating on Capitol Hill during graduate school. Reflecting on the event, he shared how meaningful it was to join a broad community of researchers working to ensure that policymakers understand the value and impact of their work.

“It’s easy to wonder if these events have a tangible impact,” Okech noted, “but when you see the long lines of people advocating on behalf of issues they care about, you start to see the potential for change. It was not just us advocating on behalf of social science research, it was also about listening to the research priorities of the administration.”

The fast-paced nature of meetings on Capitol Hill was both eye-opening and instructive. “You realize very quickly how important it is to make your message succinct and compelling,” he said. Although the time with lawmakers’ staff was brief, the opportunity to discuss the economic and societal importance of social science research proved to be a powerful reminder of the field’s relevance.

Dr. Okech emphasized the importance of using language that resonates with policymakers, especially in terms of economic impact. “Communicating how our work affects not just health and well-being, but also the economic impact, seemed to get more attention.”

One of his key takeaways from the experience was the sense of solidarity among researchers. “Meeting other social scientists with the same challenges—and feeling like I could do something, even if small, to communicate the importance of our work—was incredibly rewarding.”

When asked what more could be done to support the social sciences, Dr. Okech highlighted the need for clearer and more accessible communication. “Locally, I believe we need to better convey the real-world impact of our research to the general public,” he said.

Would he recommend the experience to others? Absolutely. “Not everyone understands the effects of social science research. Being able to communicate that to those shaping funding decisions is essential.”

His favorite moment? Being asked by congressional staff why his research matters. “It made me reflect more deeply on the real-world impact of my work, beyond what we put in grant proposals.”

The Owens Institute is proud to support faculty like Dr. Okech in representing the University of Georgia and the social sciences on a national stage.

Written by: Andrea Horsman
June 6, 2025

The University of Georgia has once again secured a place among the nation’s top research institutions in the social and behavioral sciences. According to the 2025 College and University Rankings for Federal Social and Behavioral Science R&D Funding, released by the Consortium of Social Science Associations (COSSA), UGA ranks 10th nationally, with $37.3 million in federal funding for research in these fields during fiscal year 2023. This marks the second consecutive year that UGA has ranked in the top ten—and it remains the highest-ranked institution in Georgia.

This distinction highlights UGA’s growing prominence in disciplines such as psychology, sociology, economics, political science, law, communications, and social work. These fields play a critical role in addressing some of today’s most pressing societal challenges, including public health, education access, social equity, and economic opportunity.

At the forefront of this effort is the Owens Institute for Behavioral Research (OIBR), which supports interdisciplinary research by affiliated faculty across campus. Their work helps shape policies and practices at the local, state, and national levels, producing research that not only expands academic knowledge but also drives practical solutions to real-world problems. From improving mental health outcomes and education systems to enhancing public safety and health equity, the work of OIBR researchers has tangible impacts on communities.

The COSSA rankings are based on data from the National Science Foundation’s Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) Survey, which tracks federal R&D expenditures across higher education institutions. UGA’s continued ascent in the rankings is a clear reflection of the university’s dedication to advancing research that makes a difference.

But why should this matter to the broader public?

Social and behavioral science research touches nearly every aspect of daily life. It helps answer fundamental questions: How can families thrive? What reduces crime? How can schools be more effective? What drives political behavior? How do we create more equitable and healthier communities?

This research provides critical insights into how people think, behave, and interact—and turns those insights into action. It informs better policies, more efficient public programs, and stronger community support systems. Whether it’s navigating a public health crisis, addressing systemic inequality, or understanding how technology affects communication, social science is essential to creating a more just and sustainable society.

At UGA, investment in these disciplines is not just about academic excellence—it’s about making life better for everyone. Through strong leadership, committed researchers, and growing national recognition, the Owens Institute and the University of Georgia are proud to be a driving force in the future of social and behavioral science.

Written by: Andrea Horsman
May 7, 2025

Since its inception in 1989, the William A. Owens Lecture Series has been known for scholarly excellence at the University of Georgia, fostering meaningful discussions on groundbreaking research and innovation in the social sciences.

Established in honor of Dr. William A. Owens, a pioneering psychologist whose work transformed the field of industrial and organizational psychology, the lecture series has continued to elevate discussions on cutting-edge research and its impact on society.

Dr. Owens’ contributions to psychology, particularly in biodata assessment and personnel selection, left an indelible mark on both academia and industry. In 1970, then-Vice President for Research, Robert Anderson, sought someone to lead a new interdisciplinary social sciences institute at UGA. Owens, who was already heading the Measurement Program in the Psychology Department and had a large interdisciplinary research grant, agreed to take on the role. He served as the founding director of the Institute of Behavior Research (IBR) until his retirement in 1984.

An annual lecture in Owens’ honor was initiated in 1989 by IBR Director Abe Tesser. The inaugural speaker was Dr. Fred E. Fiedler of the University of Washington, whose work on leadership and organizational behavior set the stage for the esteemed series. Fiedler’s insights into how leadership effectiveness is contingent on situational factors helped lay a foundation for future discussions for the Owens lecture series.

Over the past 33 lectures, the Owens lecture series has featured an extraordinary lineup of influential thinkers, each bringing unique perspectives that have shaped social science research. Notable speakers have included Dr. Claude Steele, Stanford University, renowned for his work on stereotype threat and social identity, and Dr. John T. Cacioppo, University of Chicago, whose research demonstrated the integration of social science with neuroscience.

Each year, the Owens lecture series provides an opportunity for the UGA community to engage with ideas that challenge and refine our understanding of human behavior. The discussions sparked in these sessions extend far beyond the auditorium, influencing research, classroom teachings, and interdisciplinary collaborations across campus.

The William A. Owens Lecture Series remains a cornerstone of intellectual growth and academic dialogue at UGA. This year’s lecture, “The Surprising Science of Meetings,” a conversation with Dr. Steven Rogelberg, Chancellor’s Professor with the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, has been selected as part of the provost’s 2025 Spring Signature Lecture Series, further solidifying its role as a premier academic event at the university. Through this ongoing tradition, Dr. Owens’ legacy continues to inspire new generations of scholars to push the boundaries of social science and its applications in the modern world.

Written by Andrea Horsman, February 3, 2025

Dr. Rebecca Nesbit, a professor of nonprofit management at the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs, is earning recognition for her research on the intricacies of civic engagement. A recipient of an AmeriCorps research grant, her latest project, “Examining the Influence of Civic Infrastructure on Rural/Urban Volunteering and Civic Engagement,” explores the often-overlooked institutional factors that drive volunteerism in rural and urban communities. The project is supported by a $431,914 award, reflecting its significant potential to advance understanding of civic engagement.

A Focus on Civic Infrastructure

As community leaders increasingly depend on civic engagement to address local challenges, Dr. Nesbit’s research examines the critical role of “civic infrastructure”—nonprofits, voluntary associations, community foundations, schools, and small businesses—in shaping how Americans participate in their communities.

“Unfortunately, we know little about the effect of civic infrastructure on civic engagement,” Dr. Nesbit explains. “Many studies focus on metropolitan areas, leaving significant gaps in understanding rural civic engagement.”

Her work addresses these gaps by analyzing unique, confidential data from the Current Population Survey (CPS) Volunteering Supplement, merged with county-level records detailing local civic infrastructure. Alongside co-investigator, Dr. Laurie E. Paarlberg of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, Dr. Nesbit employs advanced multi-level modeling in a secure Census Bureau Research Data Center to understand how institutions like churches, schools, and nonprofits influence volunteerism differently across rural and urban areas.

Challenges and Rewards of Data-Driven Research

Accessing the CPS Volunteering Supplement’s confidential data provides unparalleled insights but requires navigating strict protocols and logistical hurdles. Working within secure Census Bureau facilities adds complexity, including compliance with confidentiality standards and lengthy review processes.

“Having access to this dataset allows us to ask questions that have never been asked before,” Dr. Nesbit notes, emphasizing the value of overcoming these challenges to uncover critical insights into civic engagement.

Expanding on Previous Work

Dr. Nesbit’s current project builds on her prior AmeriCorps-funded research, “Examining the Community-Level Determinants of the Rural-Urban Volunteering Divide,” which revealed the importance of community context in shaping volunteering behaviors. That study highlighted a steep decline in volunteering rates in rural areas between 2002 and 2015, erasing a historical rural volunteering advantage.

The ongoing study expands on these findings by exploring how specific community institutions drive or inhibit civic engagement, particularly in rural communities facing barriers like population shifts and economic challenges.

Beyond the Data: Real-World Applications

Dr. Nesbit’s work is about more than statistics—it’s about empowering communities. “Volunteering is a critical form of civic engagement,” she says. “Understanding what drives it helps nonprofit leaders and policymakers create more engaged, connected communities.”

Her findings have implications for both practice and policy, offering actionable insights for nonprofit organizations and public agencies looking to improve volunteer recruitment and management.

Managing Court-Ordered Community Service Workers

Dr. Nesbit’s research extends beyond traditional volunteerism. Her forthcoming book, “Court- Ordered Community Service: The Experiences of Community Organizations and Community Service Workers,” co-authored with Dr. Jody Clay-Warner, Meigs Professor of Sociology at the University of Georgia, and Su Young Choi, a doctoral candidate in Public Administration and Policy at the University of Georgia, explores the unique challenges and opportunities of managing court- ordered community service workers. While not traditional volunteers, these individuals often serve alongside volunteers in nonprofits. The book sheds light on their experiences, the role of nonprofits in managing them, and the broader implications for civic engagement.

OIBR’s Role in Supporting Groundbreaking Research

Dr. Nesbit’s achievements have been supported by the Owens Institute for Behavioral Research (OIBR). With the assistance of OIBR’s Grant Development Program, she secured funding for her research projects on civic engagement. Additionally, Dr. Nesbit was a recipient of an OIBR seed grant, which provided funding for the data used in her forthcoming book on court-ordered community service.

As a Distinguished Scholar with OIBR, Dr. Nesbit has been deeply involved with the institute, leveraging its resources and interdisciplinary environment to advance her impactful research.

A Commitment to Community

Dr. Nesbit’s research is as much about people as it is about data. Through her partnerships with organizations like the Georgia Association of Volunteer Administrators, she ensures that her findings have practical applications, helping nonprofits and public agencies create meaningful opportunities for engagement.

“The most rewarding part of my work is knowing that it can make a difference,” Dr. Nesbit says. “Whether it’s helping a nonprofit recruit more volunteers or guiding policy discussions, my research is about building stronger, more connected communities.”

Margaret Caughy, an OIBR Distinguished Scholar and Georgia Athletic Association Professor in Family Health Disparities at the University of Georgia, is leading a research initiative to understand how societal stressors impact the mental health of Latinx youth. Supported by a $3.9 million grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), this project examines the connections between external stressors—such as anti-immigrant rhetoric and the COVID-19 pandemic—and mental health challenges like anxiety and depression in Latinx youth. The project, set to continue through 2029, is expected to deliver valuable insights into the mental health challenges faced by one of the fastest-growing populations in the U.S.

This project builds on Caughy’s extensive research in child development and family dynamics within African American and Latino communities. Known for her strength-based approach, Caughy focuses on resilience and adaptability in minority families, shifting away from the deficit model commonly used in research.

Addressing a National Crisis

In 2021, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a warning about the youth mental health crisis, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Latinx youth, in particular, face disproportionately high rates of anxiety and depression due to race, ethnicity, and socio-economic vulnerabilities.

Caughy’s study explores how historical, societal, and ecological conditions throughout childhood and adolescence affect mental health outcomes. The study examines societal stressors like immigration policies, marginalization, and family-level challenges tied to the pandemic.

“We’re looking at how societal stressors directly affect youth, but also how the stressors their families face—economic challenges, health impacts from COVID, or discrimination—filter down to impact mental health,” explains Caughy.

An Innovative Approach

The study utilizes Integrated Data Analysis (IDA), pooling data from five longitudinal studies of 2,515 Latinx mother-youth pairs from 2010 to 2026. This method enables the research team to examine a wide age range—tracking youth from ages 2 to 22—and assess the long-term mental health impacts of societal stressors.

“By combining multiple data sets, we can create a pseudo-cohort that allows us to study youth development in ways not possible with a single data set,” Caughy explains. “This lets us identify key periods where societal stressors have the greatest impact.”

The study also incorporates social media analysis, utilizing historical Twitter data to measure anti- immigrant rhetoric. This analysis, led by Itai Himelboim, an OIBR Affiliate, and Thomas C. Dowden Professor of Media Analytics at the Department of Advertising and Public Relations of the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, measures how online discourse may amplify real- world stress for Latinx families. “Utilizing cutting-edge computational methods, this study aims to understand the relationship between Twitter/X conversation about Latinx immigrants and immigration and mental health indicators. Using these techniques, we will extract specific negative sub-conversations, such as hate speech, racism, abusive language, identity attacks, and threats, and examine how they have changed over a decade and a half,” said Himelboim.

Collaborating Across Institutions

Caughy’s project is a collaborative effort, bringing together experts from the University of Texas at Austin, George Washington University, and Arizona State University. Key collaborators include Dr. Esther Calzada, Dr. Kathleen Roche, and statistician Dr. Kevin Grimm. This multidisciplinary team integrates child development, mental health, social media analysis, and statistical modeling.

“Our team is diverse, both in terms of academic disciplines and the data we bring to the table,” Caughy notes. “It’s exciting to work with colleagues who bring unique perspectives to this important issue.”

Informing Real-World Interventions

Caughy’s research goes beyond academic discovery, with the potential to inform interventions that mitigate the effects of societal stressors on Latinx youth. A primary goal is to understand protective factors—such as parental cultural socialization and youth self-regulation—that can buffer against mental health challenges.

“The hope is that this research will lead to new or refined interventions aimed specifically at Latinx families,” Caughy explains. “We want to help families build resilience, even in the face of overwhelming societal challenges.”

As Latinx youth make up over one-quarter of all U.S. youth, the study’s findings will have significant implications for mental health interventions and public policy. The results will help policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers better understand the unique challenges faced by Latinx youth and develop culturally tailored support systems.

A Vision for the Future

Caughy is optimistic about the project’s potential to shape both academic knowledge and public health initiatives. She also hopes to inspire future generations of scholars to continue studying minority families through a strength-based lens.

“We’ve made progress in shifting the narrative around ethnic minority families, but there’s still more to be done,” Caughy says. “I hope this research contributes to that ongoing conversation and paves the way for future scholars to build on what we’ve learned.”

For Caughy, the goal is not only to highlight the challenges Latinx families face but also to emphasize their resilience and strengths in overcoming adversity.

Written by Andrea Horsman Nov. 1, 2024