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New faculty focus: Andy Garbacz

August 26, 2016
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Andy Garbacz, assistant professor of educational psychology, School of Education • Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska • Educational background: BA, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2002; MA, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2004; Ph.D., University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2010 • Previous position: Assistant professor, University of Oregon

Q&A

 

 

How did you get into your field of research? I was interested in identifying and implementing practices and procedures that produce positive psychological and educational outcomes for children and adolescents.

What attracted you to UW–Madison? Opportunities in educational psychology, school psychology, and interdisciplinary connections across the University.

What was your first visit to campus like? Welcoming, invigorating, and encouraging.

Favorite place on campus? Bascom Hill

What are you most enjoying so far about working here? The shared commitment to produce high quality work that has meaningful and positive implications for children and families.

Do you feel your work relates in any way to the Wisconsin Idea? Yes. Research and practice in school psychology focuses on helping children and adolescents succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally.

What’s something interesting about your area of expertise you can share that will make us sound smarter at parties? By creating positive, structured, and supportive environments for their children, parents can address current behavior concerns, build skills and competencies, and prevent the likelihood of concerns arising in the future.

Hobbies/other interests? Running, hiking, and spending time with my family.