July 24, 2008
Catalano is Dobb Professor
By Jean M. Patterson
School of Social Work
After an institutionwide nomination process, Richard (Rico) Catalano, UW professor of social work and director of the Social Development Research Group, has been selected to hold the Bartley Dobb Professorship for Study and Prevention of Violence.
The honor was announced by UW Provost Phyllis Wise, whose office makes the appointment.
“It is because of your leadership in advancing research and program development to promote positive youth development and prevent violence in diverse communities that you are uniquely qualified to receive this honor,” Wise wrote.
“This appointment recognizes your many professional achievements and your expertise in the area of violence prevention.”
Catalano and his colleague J. David Hawkins, UW professor of social work, have developed and tested a variety of family, school and community-based preventive interventions that have reduced the rates of interpersonal violence. “I am humbled by this award,” said Catalano.
“I take the responsibility provided by this professorship very seriously. It will provide the flexibility to continue and to strengthen our work in the study and prevention of violence.”
The fund supporting the professorship is dedicated to the study and prevention of violence, including interpersonal violence, through resolution of conflict. The late Bartley Dobb earned several degrees from UW and served as a UW librarian and teacher for 41 years.
