Dear Faculty, Students, Alumni, and Friends of the Department,
As Chair of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS), I’m thrilled to share my first newsletter, celebrating our remarkable achievements of 2024. Assuming this role has been a privilege, and I am inspired by the future we are shaping together. It’s an honor to lead such a dedicated community of faculty, staff, and students who are committed to making a lasing difference in the lives of children and families around the globe.
A Vision for Our Future
In HDFS, we are leaders in advancing impactful translational science and equipping students to become future scholars and changemakers in their communities. Our novel research tackles complex challenges to transform lives. We prepare students for purposeful, meaningful careers – ones that align with their values, passions, and desires to contribute positively to society. We cultivate an enriching community where faculty, staff, and students can thrive, collaborate, innovate, and feel a sense of belonging. Together, we will build on our strong foundation and continue to push the boundaries of what we can accomplish.
Excellence in Research, Teaching, and Outreach
This year, we proudly celebrated faculty members’ ground-breaking research, innovative teaching, and a prestigious editorship. We also made an exciting leap forward with our child development 4+1 program, which enables students to earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years, providing an accelerated path to advanced education and professional growth. Our exceptional Child Development Laboratories and Couple and Family Therapy Clinic were also in the news this year for the unparalleled opportunities they provide the community, scholars, and students.
Student Achievements
Our students continue to impress us with their success and dedication. This year, several undergraduate students received awards for outstanding contributions and leadership, and one student inspired us in a TEDxMSU talk. Graduate students also won awards for their research and excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion. These successes are the direct result of HDFS students’ impressive efforts and the outstanding mentorship provided by our faculty.
Community
We strengthened our commitment to community and belonging through building upon our successful Collective Empowerment Mentoring Program. This initiative pairs undergraduate students with graduate student mentors, fostering a sense of belonging and providing guidance as they navigate their academic and professional paths. HDFS also hosted events that brought us together to learn in community and live our shared mission. Events like Cynthia García Coll’s distinguished lecture on Latinx youth and families and the Go for the Green Financial Literacy Fair continue to build the strong community that is at the heart of HDFS.
Supporting Our Growth
This year, we were thrilled to award undergraduate student scholarships through the generosity of donors. These awards made a tremendous difference in our students’ lives. As we look ahead to the future, I invite you to consider donating here to support our HDFS graduate students. You can find us by either typing Human Development and Family Studies into the Search or by selecting the College of Social Science and then HDFS.
Stay Connected
I am deeply grateful for the support I have received in my first semester as Chair, and I look forward to what we will achieve in the years to come. I encourage you to stay connected and follow HDFS news on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
Thank you for your commitment to HDFS and for your investment in our vibrant community. Together, we will continue to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students, families, and communities.
Andrea K. Wittenborn, Ph.D., LMFT
Chair & Professor
Human Development & Family Studies
Michigan State University