Dr. Donna Ruch | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Professional Profile

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Dr. Donna A. Ruch began her academic journey at The Fisher College of Business, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 1991. Her passion for social work led her to The Ohio State University, where she earned a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) in 2012, followed by a Master’s in the Study of Law (MSL) in 2016. She completed her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work at The Ohio State University in 2017, focusing on child and adolescent mental health.

🌟Professional Endeavors 

Dr. Ruch serves as a Principal Investigator at the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research at The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Her previous roles include being a Research Scientist and Senior Research Scientist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a Post-Doctoral Fellow in Patient-Centered Pediatric Research.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus 

Dr. Ruch’s research focuses on suicide prevention strategies, particularly among vulnerable youth populations. Her work involves using machine learning techniques to predict suicide risk and evaluate the impact of confinement conditions on youth suicide rates. She leads several NIH-funded studies and collaborates on national initiatives to enhance suicide prevention methods and mental health support for at-risk youth.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Ruch has received numerous honors for her research and contributions to the field of social work and mental health. Notable awards include the National Society for Social Work Research 2017 Doctoral Fellows Award and the Merriss Cornell Distinguished Researcher Award. She has also been recognized for her international contributions as a PhD student delegate at the University of Bath’s symposium.

🌐Impact and Influence 

Dr. Ruch’s work has significantly impacted suicide prevention research and policy. Her studies on youth suicide risk and health service utilization have informed targeted intervention strategies and influenced national suicide prevention priorities. Her involvement in various state and national committees underscores her dedication to advancing mental health and juvenile justice.

🚀Legacy and Future Contributions 

Looking ahead, Dr. Ruch aims to continue advancing the field of suicide prevention through innovative research and collaboration. Her ongoing projects focus on refining predictive models for suicide risk and implementing effective prevention strategies in diverse settings. Dr. Ruch’s legacy will be marked by her contributions to improving mental health outcomes for vulnerable youth and shaping future research directions in this critical area.

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