Social Welfare assistant professor selected as 2025-26 Spotlight on Faculty Excellence honoree

KU School of Social Welfare Assistant Professor Claire Willey-Sthapit is one of 12 University of Kansas faculty members selected as 2025-26 Spotlight on Faculty Excellence honorees. Willey-Sthapit, whose extensive research in Nepal highlights how people and communities deal with domestic violence, was honored during the KU volleyball game on Friday, Sept. 26.

Willey-Sthapit, who is also a mentor and advisor to undergraduate and graduate student researchers in the School of Social Welfare, studies organizations that prevent and respond to gender-based violence in Nepal. She explores how those local practices can be adapted beyond international borders, including in the United States.

The Spotlight on Faculty Excellence recognizes Willey-Sthapit’s work to advance research that supports women’s well-being on a global scale, teach and mentor students, and build healthier communities.

Amy Mendenhall, KU vice provost for faculty affairs and a professor in the School of Social Welfare, joined Willey-Sthapit on the volleyball court for her recognition.