Jerome Galea, PhD, LCSW, has been appointed chair of the Online Master of Social Work (MSW) program in the School of Social Work, effective Aug. 7, 2025.
Galea brings extensive experience from both academic and nonprofit fields, having led interdisciplinary research teams and community-based health initiatives in the U.S. and internationally. Most recently, he served as the mental health coordinator at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), where he developed strategies to enhance mental health and psychosocial support services in global humanitarian settings.
"We are confident that his interdisciplinary expertise and collaborative leadership style will guide the continued growth and excellence of our Online MSW program," said Chris Simmons, PhD, LCSW, interim director of the School of Social Work.
Galea will succeed Vickie Lynn, PhD, MSW, MPH, who has served as interim chair of the Online MSW program while continuing in her role as chair of the in-person MSW program. Lynn provided leadership during a period of growth and transition and will continue to lead the in-person MSW program.