This week at Augusta University, Master of Public Administration Program Director Dr. William Hatcher shares details on his research exploring a possible link between internet access and mental illness, and Augusta University Medical Center officials accept the CEO Cancer Gold Standard from CEO Roundtable. Below are a few of the news stories to consider this week at Augusta University.

Internet access may have an impact on mental health, researcher says

Access to the internet is often viewed as positive for communities, but little research has been conducted examining the effects of internet access on mental health at the community level. Dr. William Hatcher, director of Augusta University’s Master of Public Administration program, along with several of his social sciences colleagues, recently published an article in the Journal of Mental Health that found counties in the United States with higher levels of internet connectivity were more likely to have residents with mental health issues. Hatcher is available to answer questions about his study.

Augusta University named to Forbes’ list of best employers in Georgia

Augusta University was recently named to Forbes’ inaugural list of America’s Best Employers by State. While Georgia has an impressive list of state employers, Augusta University is the only employer headquartered in Augusta to make the list. Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel, PhD, said the ranking served as testament to the university’s employees and its rich culture and history. “Even as our university and health system continue to evolve, our employees’ devotion to our core mission endures. I’m inspired by their passion and honored by their commitment to our students, patients and their families,” he said.

Augusta University Medical Center named Gold Standard Employer

The CEO Roundtable, a nonprofit organization of CEOs founded by former President George H.W. Bush, has awarded the CEO Cancer Gold Standard to Augusta University Medical Center for incorporating workplace strategies to help employees and their families reduce their risk of cancer. This is the sixth year the medical center has received this accreditation.

Lefebvre named president of the Academy of Prosthodontics

Dr. Carol Lefebvre, dean of The Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University, has been named president of the Academy of Prosthodontics, the nation’s oldest specialty organization in prosthetic dentistry. Lefebvre is the second woman to hold this leadership position since the organization’s inception in 1918. She is available to speak with the media about the significance of her appointment.

Photo, video and interview opportunities are available for these story ideas. Call 706-522-3023 to schedule an interview on any of these topics. Also, check out the Augusta University Expert Center to view a complete list of our experts ready to provide timely, informative interviews on topics ranging from cybersecurity to business.