Nicole Ruggiano
Associate Dean for Research, School of Social Work
Dr. Nicole Ruggiano is professor and associate dean of research in the School of Social Work at The University of Alabama, founding director of the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program, affiliated associate professor in neurology, and affiliated scientist at UAB Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. A geriatric social worker, her research/advocacy improves care for older adults via technology for people with dementia (PWD) and caregivers. She leads grants from AHRQ, NIA, NSF, and John A. Hartford Foundation, including a touchscreen AAC device for PWD preferences (RCT underway) and AI/VGI community tool for Alabama dementia services. Previously an APSA Congressional Health and Aging Policy Fellow and Hartford Geriatric Social Work Faculty Scholar. She teaches policy/research/macro practice across BSW/MSW/PhD/DSW levels and mentors doctoral students. In practice, she consulted with AHRQ on chronic care, served on Alabama Lifespan Respite Coalition (Gov. Kay Ivey appointee), and launched Alabama Caregiver Connect for rural-focused research/resources.