Melissa Jenkins, PhD, MSW | Morse Scholar Alumni
Morse Scholar Alumni 2024–2026
Current Position
Assistant Professor, School of Social Work
University of North Carolina at Charlotte (starting 8/1/2026)
Contact
About
My program of research focuses on risk factors for violence and exploitation among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), as well as the role of adverse childhood experiences in physical and behavioral health outcomes among individuals with IDD. My research approach is guided by the following beliefs: (a) research is impactful when the population(s) of interest perceive it as as both important and relevant; and (b) a crucial component of effective research is the active participation of community members. My goal is to develop comprehensive interpersonal violence prevention programming that balances safety and empowerment through consistent community engagement and partnership.
Education
| 2017 | BSW | Social Work | Meredith College |
| 2018 | MSW | Social Work | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill |
| 2023 | PhD | Social Work | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill |
| 2023-2026 | T32 Postdoctoral Trainee | Major Professor: Sigan Hartley, PhD | Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison |
