Sarah Blithe, assistant professor of communication studies in the College of Liberal Arts, was awarded the 2017 Outstanding Book Award from the Organizational Communication Division of the National Communication Association for her book Gender Equality and Work-Life Balance: Glass handcuffs and working men in the U.S.  

Blithe's book follows the work-life practices of men, and "the glass handcuffs" phenomenon, which impedes men from engaging with their families and other non-work pursuits. Blithe sees the book as a feminist project and argues that women will never see equality at work unless men use work-life policies.  She views the award as a starting point for more study.

"It is exciting to see people acknowledge the importance of work-life "balance" as a necessary area for study," Blithe said. "I hope this project can promote discussion about organizational policies which either support or constrain individuals in their work and non-work lives, and that organizations can begin to implement supportive strategies for positive change."

Debra Moddelmog, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, felt proud of Blithe's accomplishments for her book. 

"Sarah has received awards for this book previously, but it's really special when the NCA recognizes her work with an outstanding book award," Moddelmog said. "She should take time to savor this latest recognition, especially after all the work that went into writing the book in the first place."