Kerry Towler

Kerry Towler serves as Professor of Psychology and Chair of Social Sciences at Tennessee Wesleyan University, where she oversees academic operations for the Department of Psychology and related disciplines. Her leadership role includes strategic direction for social science curricula and faculty development, with direct contact available via ktowler@tnwesleyan.edu or 423-746-5257.

Her research centers on human behavior in societal contexts, particularly examining psychological responses to global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Key interests include:

• Social Psychology: Group dynamics and interpersonal influences during disruptive events
• Behavioral Science: Decision-making patterns in high-stress environments
• Crisis Response: Community adaptation to public health emergencies

This work gained national recognition through features in The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and Wicked Local Cambridge, highlighting real-world applications of her findings. As department chair, she integrates research insights into academic programming while advancing the university's social science initiatives.