Allan Cole, dean of Texas Social Work, was named as the recipient of the prestigious Joe and Bettie Branson Ward Award for academic year 2025 –26.
Granted once every three years by the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost at The University of Texas at Austin, this award recognizes individuals whose teaching and research models and develops student’s abilities, attitudes and behaviors to participate in and bring about societal change.
“Social work research and education should create impact and change lives,” said Dean Cole. “I’m honored by this recognition from The University of Texas at Austin, and I am grateful to work alongside exceptional colleagues who deliver excellence and inspire me. The Joe and Bettie Branson Ward Award is a testament to the positive impact higher education can have, including transforming the lives of individuals, communities, and beyond.”
Dean Cole’s nomination included highlights such as his interdisciplinary work as Dell Medical School’s first-ever deputy for health humanities and technology. In this newly created position which strengthens the relationship between social work and Dell Med, he serves on the executive operational team and works on strategic initiatives related especially to teaching and research in artificial intelligence and digital health, implementation science, ethics and bioethics, and patient- and community-centered models of care.
His nomination also included his role as the founding director of the Moritz Center for Societal Impact, which facilitates new research and collaboration to help solve critical social problems and advance health and wellness in communities. Efforts include supporting interdisciplinary work among researchers, students, and community partners to develop new knowledge and solutions.
His nomination also including multiple support letters, including from faculty and former students.
“Dean Cole’s contributions reach far beyond his profound commitment to students,” said Dr. Noël Busch-Armendariz, who supported his nomination. “He equips scholars, community members, students, practitioners, policymakers, and other leaders with the tools necessary for driving meaningful change. [He] exemplifies high standards, a strong work ethic, and unwavering integrity, all of which are hallmarks of his character.”
“Under Dean Cole’s mentorship, I discovered how to weave my expertise in expressive arts, neuroscience and clinical practice into innovative approaches for addressing complex challenges,” said Dr. Laura Harjeet Dosanjh, a former student of Dean Cole who also wrote a letter of support for his nomination. “What further distinguishes Dean Cole is his ability to help students translate academic knowledge into tangible societal impact, beyond campus boundaries. He has consistently created platforms for students to engage with community stakeholders and university leadership, teaching us that effective social work requires both academic rigor and public engagement.”