News Release

CHAPEL HILL — Dr. Richard P. Barth, Frank A. Daniels professor for human services policy in the School of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has received the 2005 James E. Flynn Prize for Research.

The award is given annually to a scholar whose interdisciplinary studies have significantly shaped modern social policy. Marilyn Flynn, dean of the School of Social Work at the University of Southern California, established the international award in 1999. The award, which is accompanied by a $10,000 cash prize and a gold medallion, will be presented at a black tie ceremony in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Sunday (March 6).

"I am extremely proud of Rick’s work and the impact it continues to have on helping to solve the social and health problems facing families and children in North Carolina and the nation," said Jack Richman, dean of the UNC School of Social Work.

Criteria for the award include significant advancement of the understanding of populations most impacted by severe and persistent social problems; rigor, depth and creative imagination; and the production of social change.

"I am very honored," Barth said. "The group of Flynn Prize winners is distinguished, and I am thrilled to join them. At the same time, I have a bit of survivor’s guilt, wondering why I was so fortunate when there are many colleagues who are also deserving. I wish there were more of these to go around."

Barth said he plans to use part of his prize money to make gifts to UNC and the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his master’s and doctoral degrees.

A member of the faculty since 1998, Barth’s research is related to child abuse and neglect and services provided to children who enter foster care. His studies of transitions from foster care into adoption and other living arrangements have shaped a range of federal policies.

Before coming to UNC, Barth was a chaired professor at Berkeley’s School of Social Welfare. He was previously honored for research excellence by the University of Chicago and the National Association of Social Workers.

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School of Social Work contact: Krystie Grubb, (919) 962-6540, kgrubb@email.unc.edu