Social Work Faculty

Dr. Prieto joined Mason in the fall of 2023. His research interests focus on aging and sexual health among older adults. He is passionate about advancing the discussions concerning sexual satisfaction and health disparities among older LGBTQIA+ populations. Prieto has published in several health-related journals such as Annals of LGBTQ Public and Population Health and the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. He earned his B.S. in Sociology/Criminal Justice at Central Michigan University, M.S.W. at the University of Michigan, and his Ph.D. at Michigan State University.

Faculty from all five academic units have earned tenure and promotions, effective fall 2023. Faculty emerita is effective June 2023.

Substance use disorder affects more than 40 million Americans according to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Recovery can be a difficult path, but an interdisciplinary team led by Holly Matto, associate professor in the Department of Social Work, aims to make it a little easier through a recently patented technology-based therapy. 

A new study from Assistant Professor Melissa Villodas shows that connectedness is a protective factor against declining mental health.   

During Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (February), Daphne King, EdD, associate professor of Social Work, shares tips for parents and teens to help teens have safe and healthy relationships.

​​​​​​​Assistant Professor of Social Work Melissa Villodas shares her research on the impact neighborhood environments have on mental health

‘Is love going to kill me?’

Assistant Professor of Social Work Evelyn Tomaszewski outlines social workers’ key role in creating and building partnerships that commit to a sustainable and just approach to battling global issues.

Assistant Professor of Social Work and MSW Online Program Coordinator Daphne King provides tips for prospective Master of Social Work (MSW) students considering online programs.

Dr. Villodas’ research centers on understanding how social determinants of health impact the mental health of vulnerable young people and how to address this through programs and initiatives at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.