We are pleased to announce that Professor Tara Leytham Powell has been awarded a Spring 2025 Small Grant from the Center for Social & Behavioral Science (CSBS) for her project, Enhancing Disaster Resilience for Vulnerable Children: Exploring Neighborhood Determinants of Hurricane Risk and Intervention Barriers.

In collaboration with Marynia Kolak, a professor in Geography & Geographic Information Science, and social work doctoral student Babu Gounder, Dr. Powell’s research explores how social, economic, and environmental conditions at the neighborhood level affect children’s vulnerability to natural disasters. The project also identifies barriers to implementing behavioral health interventions, particularly the Journey of Hope program, in hurricane-prone communities across Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. By combining macro-level data analysis with implementation science, the team aims to build a framework that improves access to mental health services and strengthens community resilience for children affected by hurricanes.

The CSBS Small Grant Program supports the development of innovative research projects that advance social and behavioral science and show strong potential for future external funding. Funded by the Office of the Chancellor, the Office of the Provost, and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, the program encourages new collaborations and provides researchers with opportunities to explore uncharted areas of inquiry. Projects funded through this program often include the creation of new research initiatives, small pilot studies that lay the groundwork for larger proposals, and the development of novel methodological approaches.

Congratulations to Dr. Powell on this well-earned recognition and her continued efforts to support the mental health and well-being of vulnerable children and communities.