Jia Xue (supplied image)
Jia Xue recognized with Deborah K. Padgett Early Career Achievement Award
Published: February 19, 2025
Jia Xue, an assistant professor in the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work and the Faculty of Information, has been recognized with the Society for Social Work and Research's Deborah K. Padgett Early Career Achievement Award.
The award recognizes individuals who are engaged in innovative scholarship, have embraced a rigorous approach to social work research and are an emerging influence in the field.
Xue is the founding director of the Artificial Intelligence for Justice Lab (AIJ Lab), leading a team of researchers investigating intimate partner violence, sexual violence, child maltreatment, school bullying and the communication of health information around COVID-19 on social media. Her research has also examined the use of chatbots for e-health, which has become an essential reference for both academics and practitioners aiming to enhance strategies for health promotion.
“Jia’s groundbreaking scholarship linking AI, social media and social justice has been recognized for advancing the profession, particularly in areas related to marginalization, oppression and privilege,” says Charmaine Williams, dean of the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work. “To our knowledge, this is the first time this award has been given to someone from a Canadian university.”
