Skip to header Skip to Content Skip to Footer

Mapson Appointed Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Affairs

College of Health & Human Services News
College of Health & Human Services News
Photo: OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY RELATIONS/UNCW
The College of Health and Human Services at UNC Wilmington is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Kristin Mapson as the new Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Affairs. This role reflects a strategic shift from the former office of Research and Innovation to a broader focus that now includes faculty affairs, ensuring comprehensive support for research initiatives and faculty development across the college.

Dr. Mapson, a professor of social work, joined UNC Wilmington in 2013 and has since made significant contributions to both academic and administrative leadership within the School of Social Work. Her previous roles include Master of Social Work program coordinator, associate school director, interim director of the School of Social Work, and most recently, interim associate dean for research and innovation.

Her research interests center on resilience, forensic social work, and solution-focused brief therapy. She has authored two books, published over 30 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and played a key role in securing more than $1 million in sponsored programs. Dr. Mapson has also held leadership positions in the Solution Focused Brief Therapy Association and served on the editorial board for Research on Social Work Practice.

Dr. Mapson earned her PhD in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington, her Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and a bachelor’s degree in law and society from Purdue University. In recognition of her excellence in teaching, she received the 2018 Chancellor’s Teaching Excellence Award at UNC Wilmington.

As the newly renamed Office of Research and Faculty Affairs takes shape, Dr. Mapson will lead efforts to support faculty in areas such as promotion and tenure, policy development, and recognition for scholarly achievements.

“Dr. Mapson brings a rare combination of scholarly excellence, administrative experience, and genuine commitment to faculty success. Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing both research and faculty development across the college,” said Dean Jack Watson.