Introduction
Matthew Owen Howard, often referred to simply as Owen Howard, was a highly respected American scholar in the field of social work and addiction research. Born on July 21, 1956, and passing on December 15, 2018, Howard left a profound legacy through his extensive academic contributions, leadership roles, and dedication to advancing research on substance use disorders. His work influenced major universities across the United States, including Owen Howard FSU, Owen Howard Florida State, and Owen Howard Florida State University, where his research continues to be referenced and valued.
Academic Leadership and Contributions
Howard held the prestigious position of Frank A. Daniels Distinguished Professor for Human Services Policy Information in the School of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also served as the Associate Dean for Doctoral Education, helping shape future generations of researchers and practitioners.
Recognized as a national authority in substance use disorders, Howard specialized in inhalant abuse, inert gas asphyxiation, and alcohol dependence among young people. His research significantly impacted policies, treatment programs, and academic discussions nationwide.
Prolific Research and Recognition
Over his career, Matthew Owen Howard authored nearly 400 publications, including:
300+ peer-reviewed journal articles
Book reviews
Editorials
Government reports
Scientific abstracts
His accomplishments earned him multiple honors, such as his 2010 induction as a fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine. In 2016, he was named one of the “top 40 social work researchers in the U.S.” for delivering high-impact contributions addressing critical social and health issues.
Editorial Influence and Professional Service
Howard also played an essential role in shaping the field through editorial leadership. He served on nearly 60 academic journal boards, including:
Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Addictive Diseases
Editor-in-Chief, Social Work Research
North American Editor, British Journal of Social Work
Associate Editor, Journal of Social Services Research
These positions amplified his influence across national and international academic communities, including institutions such as Owen Howard FSU, Owen Howard Florida State, and Owen Howard Florida State University.
He was a fellow of the Society for Social Work and Research and the American Academy of Social Work and Welfare, recognized for advancing social good through high-impact scholarship.
Early Life and Education
Howard grew up in Yakima, Washington, where he actively participated in sports and music. During high school, he played trombone in the marching band and contributed to his football and baseball teams.
He earned:
B.S. in Psychology – Western Washington University
M.S. in Psychology – Western Washington University
M.S.W. (Master of Social Work) – University of Washington
Ph.D. in Social Welfare – University of Washington
Teaching Career and Academic Legacy
Howard began his teaching career at the University of Washington before joining Washington University’s George Warren Brown School of Social Work in St. Louis as an assistant and later associate professor.
He then accepted dual full-professor appointments at the University of Michigan in both the School of Social Work and the Department of Psychiatry at the School of Medicine. His final academic home was the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned several awards for outstanding teaching—including the UNC 2014 Distinguished Teaching Award for Post-Baccalaureate Instruction.
Throughout his Owen Howard Florida State career, Owen Howard remained dedicated to advancing research, mentoring students, and influencing policy development at universities throughout the nation, including Owen Howard FSU, Owen Howard Florida State, and Owen Howard Florida State University.
Conclusion
Matthew Owen Howard was a trailblazer in social work and addiction studies. His extensive research, editorial leadership, and passion for education have left a lasting imprint on the academic world. His work continues to shape the fields of social work and public health, reinforcing his legacy at institutions across the country—including Florida State University, widely referenced as Owen Howard FSU, Owen Howard Florida State, and Owen Howard Florida State University.