Joy Patton

Joy Patton serves as Associate Professor of Social Work and BSW Program Director at Our Lady of the Lake University, where she also functions as Online Faculty.

Education:

• PhD in Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington
• Master of Science in Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington
• Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Relations, Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Central Oklahoma

Her research focuses on online education, trauma-informed methodologies, and community development, emphasizing practical applications in social work. Her teaching philosophy prioritizes compassionate, flexible learning environments with active problem-solving and real-world relevance.

Dr. Patton actively contributes to professional organizations including the Council on Social Work Education, National Association of Social Workers, Influencing Social Policy, and Society for Social Work Research. As BSW Program Director, she oversees curriculum development and student mentorship while integrating strategic planning and grant-writing expertise into program initiatives.