Cheryl Holmes and Brennan Miller receive Statland Award for Research Leadership
In recognition of contributions to research, scholarship, leadership and the teaching mission in the KU School of Social Welfare, Brennan Miller and Cheryl Holmes are the 2026 recipients of the Statland Award for Research Leadership.
Brennan Miller, research associate, was recognized for his strong and growing record of scholarly contributions and his meaningful impact on both research and practice in child welfare. Dr. Miller’s work is grounded in a clear commitment to equity-driven, applied research that aims to improve outcomes for children and families involved in the child welfare system, as well as the well-being of the workforce that serves them.
His scholarly and practice-oriented contributions include the development of a publicly accessible data dashboard linking social determinants of health to child welfare outcomes in Kansas, created in partnership with community stakeholders.
"This kind of work reflects a broader pattern in his scholarship: research that is not only rigorous, but transparent, collaborative, and usable by the communities and systems it is meant to serve," a colleague wrote.
Cheryl Holmes, research project director, was recognized for scholarship, leadership, and service that have left a lasting mark on the KU School of Social Welfare. For more than 25 years, Holmes has built an extraordinary record in social science research and evaluation. Since joining the School of Social Welfare in 2002, she has led and contributed to community‑based research and project management efforts that bridge rigorous inquiry with real‑world impact.
“Despite her many accomplishments, Cheryl remains modest and grounded," one of Holmes' long-time colleagues wrote. "Her quiet dedication and steadfast commitment have made a lasting impact on colleagues and community partners.”
About the Statland Award for Research Leadership
The Statland Award for Research Leadership celebrates outstanding contributions to research and scholarship within the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare.
This award recognizes faculty and staff who demonstrate exemplary commitment to facilitating impactful scholarship in the school through research leadership activities, such as developing and implementing research project ideas and plans, directing research teams and mentoring research team members, and securing research funding.