UTA In The News — Monday, August 30, 2021
New degree
UTA is hoping to address several needs regarding substance use treatment across the state with the creation of its new degree program, KERA reported. This academic year, the University is launching a Bachelor of Science in substance use and treatment to address student demand and a staffing shortage in the behavioral health field.
Mercy versus justice
Kent Ryan Kerley, professor and chair of criminology and criminal justice at UT Arlington offered his expertise on a death row case in an article for The New York Times. Scheduled for execution on Sept. 8, John Henry Ramirez is suing to have his Baptist pastor lay hands on him as he dies. “It’s mercy versus justice, which one do they choose?” Kerley said. “This is a perfect test case.”
Misinformation regarding COVID-19
Erin Carlson, UTA associate clinical professor in the College of Nursing and Health Innovation, was featured in Forbes and the Dallas Observer discussing ivermectin, an antiparasitic medication used to deworm cows and horses, in the fight against COVID-19. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently granted full approval to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Even though the FDA explicitly warns against ivermectin, some people believe it is a better solution. “When in doubt, Texans should look to science for COVID-19 answers … and take human medicine, like FDA-approved human medicine for a human virus,” said Carlson.
Virtual learning in Fort Worth
Fort Worth school officials rolled out a plan for a virtual learning option for students who can’t safely come back to school during the pandemic. Peggy Semingson, a professor in UT Arlington’s Department of Linguistics and TESOL, spoke with the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, saying the public wifi service is a step up for families in those neighborhoods who will rely on it for distance learning. Making sure families have access to wifi is one of the most important things school districts can do to make sure their students succeed in distance learning, said Semingson.