USC’s College of Social Work is proud to announce the appointment of four distinguished faculty to key positions within the college, enhancing a commitment to excellence in education and research.
Terry Wolfer, Associate Dean for Curriculum
Professor Terry Wolfer, a faculty member of the College of Social Work since 1996, has been appointed as the Associate Dean for Curriculum. Wolfer's teaching and efforts in enhancing the student learning experience are well recognized. He served previously as the interim Associate Dean, was a coordinator of the Ph.D. program and received the Garnet Apple Award for Teaching Innovation from USC.
Aidyn Iachini, Associate Dean for Research
Associate Professor Aidyn Iachini has been appointed as the Associate Dean for Research. A member of the faculty since 2011, her extensive scholarship in positive youth development, interprofessional education and collaborative practices earned her a Breakthrough Star Award and recognition as a Society for Social Work and Research Fellow. Iachini has numerous publications and leadership roles in journals and organizations and previously served as interim Associate Dean.
Bree Alexander, Undergraduate Program Director
Assistant Professor Bree Alexander has been appointed as the college’s Undergraduate Program Director. With a diverse background and licenses in both South Carolina and Texas, Alexander is committed to academic excellence through her accomplishments including becoming the first African American to earn a doctorate in social work from Baylor University. She previously served as the interim Undergraduate Program Director.
Rhonda DiNovo, MSW Program Director
Rhonda DiNovo, college faculty member since 2015, has been appointed as MSW Program Director. DiNovo is the director of the Graduate Certificate in Drug and Addiction Studies and has a history of contributions including leadership in substance abuse prevention. She was awarded USC’s Two Thumbs Up and is a social work consultant for the West Columbia Police Department.
Maryah Stella Fram, Ph.D. Program Director
Dr. Maryah Stella Fram has been appointed as the Ph.D. Program Director. Fram's research in child development, food insecurity and poverty alleviation has led to achievements including being named the College of Social Work Educator of the Year. Fram has been a member of the faculty since 2011, is a dedicated student mentor and previously served as the PhD program coordinator.
“Each appointee brings a wealth of experience and expertise,” said Dean Teri Browne. “Their appointments will further solidify the college's position as a leader in social work education.”
Each appointee is set to assume their respective positions fall, 2023.