David Ward

Inspiring change in the area of mental health and relationships, David Ward serves as the Dean of Health Professions and a Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy at Pacific Lutheran University. With a robust academic background, he earned his Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Texas Tech University, following an M.S. in the same field from Virginia Tech, and a B.S. in Family Science from Brigham Young University. His scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the transformative power of hope, clinical training and supervision, and the dynamics of couple relationships. Professor Ward's commitment to advancing the field is evident through his active involvement with the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. His dedication to the profession and his students has been recognized through various accolades, including the prestigious 2015 Volunteer of the Year award from the Washington Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Additionally, his exceptional mentoring skills were honored with the 2012 Faculty Excellence Award for Mentoring at Pacific Lutheran University. Throughout his career, Ward has been a passionate advocate for the integration of hope in therapeutic practices, believing in its profound ability to foster change and resilience in individuals and couples. His research and teachings emphasize the importance of hope as a catalyst for personal and relational growth, aiming to equip future therapists with the tools necessary to inspire their clients. In his role as Dean, Ward has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and enhancing the clinical training programs at Pacific Lutheran University. His leadership has been pivotal in fostering an environment that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and compassionate care among students and faculty alike. Beyond his academic and administrative responsibilities, Ward is deeply committed to community engagement and service. His volunteer work and contributions to the field reflect his unwavering dedication to improving mental health services and supporting families in navigating the complexities of modern relationships. David Ward's career is a testament to his belief in the power of education, mentorship, and hope to effect meaningful change in the lives of individuals and communities. His work continues to inspire students, colleagues, and professionals in the field of marriage and family therapy.