Ashlee Lien

Ashlee Lien serves as Chair and Associate Professor of Community Psychology in the Psychology Department at SUNY College at Old Westbury. She teaches a range of courses including Community Psychology, Psychology of Prejudice, Social Psychology, Psychology and Social Justice, and seminars focused on diversity and social justice. Her academic home is situated in the New Academic Building, Room 2067.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Community Psychology, Wichita State University (2013)
• M.A. in Community Psychology, Wichita State University (2010)
• B.A. in Psychology, North Park University, Chicago (2005)

Lien's research utilizes qualitative interview techniques to focus on the experiences of traditionally bypassed communities and approaches to change. While her current research focuses on feminism and how individuals form understandings of feminist identity, her past research has examined the mental health recovery movement, first-generation college students, mentorship programs, and curriculum development. Her work consistently centers on social justice issues, exploring topics like racism, privilege, and approaches to teaching controversial subjects in diverse academic settings.

Her publication record shows a strong trend toward community psychology practice in educational settings, with particular emphasis on undergraduate student engagement, early career development in the field, and feminist approaches to teaching. Many of her recent works focus on mentoring relationships, student empowerment through classroom projects, and the experiences of first-generation college students.

Lien has been actively involved in mentoring undergraduate students and promoting their engagement in professional organizations like the Society for Community Research and Action (SCRA). She has developed numerous opportunities for students to present research, attend conferences, and participate in professional development activities.

She has presented extensively at national conferences including the Society for Community Research and Action, American Psychological Association, and Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues, with recent presentations focusing on feminist teaching, critical consciousness development, and strategies for teaching anti-racism courses.