UMSSW has promoted Geoffrey Greif, MSW, PhD, LCSW-C, a leading scholar of families and friendships, to Distinguished Professor Emeritus.
The University of Maryland School of Social Work is pleased to announce the promotion of Geoffrey Greif, MSW, PhD, LCSW-C, to Distinguished Professor Emeritus, effective January 1, 2026. Dr. Greif has been a member of the School of Social Work faculty since 1984 and has previously served as associate dean, shaping the School’s academic programs and mentoring generations of social work professionals. Through teaching, scholarship, and service, he has consistently demonstrated excellence and deep commitment to the School, the University, and the broader community.
A nationally and internationally recognized scholar, Dr. Greif is the author or co-author of more than 150 journal articles and book chapters and numerous books on families, friendships, and human relationships. His works include influential volumes such as Buddy System: Understanding Male Friendships, Adult Sibling Relationships, In-Law Relationships: Mothers, Daughters, Fathers, and Sons, and co-authored books like When Parents Kidnap and Beating the Odds: Raising Academically Successful African American Males. His scholarship has deepened understanding of adult friendships, family dynamics, child abduction, interracial families, and fatherhood, informing both social work research and practice.
Dr. Greif is also an exceptional professor, having received dozens of dean’s teaching awards from the School of Social Work, the University System of Maryland Board of Regents Excellence in Teaching Award, and recognition as Educator of the Year by the Maryland Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. He was named the University of Maryland, Baltimore Teacher of the Year in 2018, reflecting his dedication to innovative, student-centered instruction and mentorship in both the MSW and doctoral programs.
Beyond the classroom and his scholarship, Dr. Greif has provided extensive service to the profession and the community, including chairing a gubernatorial commission on sexual orientation discrimination in Maryland and serving on multiple community and professional boards. His work with fathering groups in correctional and community settings exemplifies his commitment to improving the lives of families and communities. Please extend to Dr. Greif warm congratulations on this well-deserved promotion and best wishes for continued accomplishment in his role as Distinguished Professor Emeritus.