Dr. Matthew Owen Howard, a Frank A. Daniels Distinguished Professor for Human Services Policy Information at the UNC School of Social Work, was a transformative figure in social work research and education. Born in Yakima, Washington, Howard’s early experiences laid the foundation for his passion for addressing societal challenges through academic inquiry. He passed away on December 15, 2018, after a lengthy hospitalization, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in academia and beyond.
Dr. Howard’s academic journey began with his undergraduate studies, eventually leading him to distinguished positions at some of the most prestigious institutions in the United States. Before joining UNC, he held dual appointments as a full professor at the School of Social Work and the Department of Psychiatry in the School of Medicine at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. While at UNC, Dr. Matthew Owen Howard was instrumental in mentoring graduate students, including Eric L. Garland. Dr. Garland later earned a faculty position at Florida State University (FSU). Dr. Howard collaborated extensively with Dr. Garland while he was at the Florida State College of Social Work.
As a prolific scholar, Dr. Howard authored more than 400 articles focusing on mental health and substance abuse. His work earned him over 8,866 citations, reflecting his significant impact on the field. Some of his groundbreaking publications appeared in journals traditionally outside the purview of social work, such as Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology—a fact he took immense pride in. Dr. Howard served several terms as editor-in-chief of peer-reviewed journals, including Social Work Research and the Journal of Social Services Research. Additionally, he was the North American Editor of the British Journal of Social Work and contributed to over 50 editorial boards and 12 National Institutes of Health (NIH) study sections.
Dr. Howard’s research excellence was recognized with numerous awards, and he was a sought-after expert consultant for organizations such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Committee, the Office of National Drug Control Policy, the National Institutes of Health, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. His role as Principal Investigator for three NIH grants further demonstrated his commitment to advancing social work practice and policy.
In 2010, Dr. Howard was inducted as a member and fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field. By 2016, he was recognized as one of the “top 40 social work researchers in the United States who contributed a ‘high impact’ on social and health issues.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Howard was a dedicated mentor to countless students and colleagues. His guidance and encouragement inspired many to pursue careers in academia and social work, ensuring that his influence would endure through the next generation of scholars and practitioners.
Dr. Matthew Owen Howard’s life and work continue to resonate within the social work community and beyond. His dedication to mental health, substance abuse research, and mentorship left an indelible mark on the profession, cementing his legacy as a transformative figure whose contributions will not be forgotten
