Florida Atlantic University - College of Social Work & Criminal Justice

09/03/2026

What does it really take to succeed in college?

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being willing to learn, grow, connect and keep going.

Danielle Groton, Ph.D., associate professor and Doctorate of Social Work program coordinator in Florida Atlantic’s Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work, shares 10 practical tips for academic success — from keeping an open mind and stepping outside your comfort zone to building connections, asking for help and making time to enjoy the journey.

Whether you’re beginning your first semester or working toward graduation, there’s something here for every student.

🦉 Read Dr. Groton’s 10 Top Tips for Success:

As a new academic year begins, Danielle Groton, Ph.D., associate professor and Doctorate of Social Work program coordinator in the Sandler School of Social Work, shares her 10 top tips for making the most of the college experience.

09/03/2026

❤️💙 The countdown to Florida Atlantic Giving Day has begun! 🦉

The Giving Period is officially open as we look ahead to Giving Day on Thursday, September 17!

Your support of the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice helps create opportunities for our students through scholarships, programs, hands-on learning experiences and resources that prepare them to make a difference in the lives of others.

Our students are preparing for careers dedicated to helping people, strengthening communities and advancing justice — and you can be part of their journey.

🦉 Give early. Show your CSWCJ pride. Change lives.

Visit fau.edu/givingday and choose the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice.

08/28/2026

Who gets believed, and why?

It’s a question with real consequences across the criminal justice system.

As South Florida continues to confront conversations surrounding domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual violence, victim reporting and institutional accountability, Dr. Michelle N. Eliasson, assistant professor in Florida Atlantic University’s School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, is helping students examine how perceptions of victims and credibility can influence criminal investigations from their earliest stages.

Through her research and her book, Police, Victims, and Credibility, Dr. Eliasson explores how victims and their experiences are assessed.

For SCCJ students preparing for careers in law enforcement, victim advocacy, policy and related fields, these conversations bring classroom learning into the complexities of real-world criminal justice while strengthening the empathy, critical thinking and analytical skills essential to fairness and public trust.

Who gets believed? Why? And how can tomorrow’s criminal justice professionals make more informed and equitable decisions?

These are questions worth asking.

08/19/2026

An Owl Family Legacy: Kevin Muller’s Inspiring Journey at FAU

The Muller family defines what it means to be True Owls! After the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy, Kevin Muller, a Veteran, public safety professional, and devoted father, found new purpose through education and advocacy. Thirty years after first enrolling at FAU, Kevin returned to finish his Criminal Justice degree, inspired by his daughters and their shared dedication to making a difference.

What makes Kevin’s journey even more special? The entire Muller family are proud FAU alumni! Kevin graduated alongside his daughter, joining his wife and other daughter as fellow Owls. Together, they represent a legacy of resilience, service, and Owl Pride.

Join us in celebrating the Mullers, a family united by courage, commitment, and their FAU roots.

Read the full story: https://www.fau.edu/sw-cj/news/2026-08-kevin-muller-story/

08/13/2026

Dr. Marianna L. Colvin (FAU) and Dr. Daniel Gibbs (UGA) are leading research that helps child welfare agencies respond quickly to change, so children aren’t left waiting for help. Their work promotes fewer disruptions, more consistent care, and brighter futures for kids who need it most.

Learn how this important research can make a real difference for children:
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08/07/2026

🎉 We are proud to celebrate FAU MSW alumnus Craig Robinson for his remarkable dedication to serving the community! Craig’s journey from student to social work leader inspires us all. Read about his impact and how he's making a difference every day: https://www.fau.edu/sw-cj/news/msw-alumnus-craig-robinson/

For many attorneys, success is measured by the cases they win. For Craig Robinson, it is measured by the lives and families he helps rebuild.

08/04/2026

Did you know certain personality traits can predict risky online behavior?

A new study by Florida Atlantic University School of Criminology and Criminal Justice Director and Professor Ryan Meldrum and colleagues uses the Low Self-Control Psychopathic Traits Scale (LSCPTS) to show that traits linked to the "antisocial core" are also tied to Dark Web access, cyber victimization, and poor cyber hygiene.

This research highlights the importance of understanding personality in our digital lives and opens doors for future study.

The low self-control psychopathic traits scale (LSCPTS) represents an important advancement linking ‘antisocial core’ traits drawn from both criminology and psychology to deviant and risky behavior. The current study adds to the emergent literature utilizing this theoretical measure by investiga...

07/23/2026

Congratulations to the newest graduates of the Palm Beach County Housing Leadership Academy!

The FAU Phyllis & Harvey Sandler School of Social Work was proud to partner with the Palm Beach County Community Services Department in celebrating professionals who completed this nine-month leadership program focused on strengthening housing solutions and addressing homelessness throughout our community.

Our faculty and staff provided consultation, are conducting the Academy's evaluation, and were honored to present certificates to graduates during the celebration. The inaugural Community Impact Showcase highlighted innovative projects designed to improve housing stability and create lasting change across Palm Beach County.

Congratulations to every graduate for your commitment to building stronger, healthier communities.

07/20/2026

Congratulations to Daniela Sauceda, a proud graduate of Florida Atlantic University's Master of Social Work program! Daniela’s journey from undergraduate student to MSW graduate is a story of resilience, dedication, and a passion for making a difference. Through her studies and fieldwork, Daniela discovered her calling to support children and families.

We extend a special thank you to the leaders of The Haven Detox Florida for their outstanding work and valued collaboration with our program and students. Partnerships like these help empower future professionals and strengthen our community.

Read more about Daniela’s inspiring story and her advice to future Owls ➡️ https://www.fau.edu/sw-cj/news/2026-daniela-sauceda-msw-graduate/