Lisa Henry

Lisa Henry is the Divisional Dean of Social Sciences and Professor of Anthropology at the University of North Texas. Her work focuses on applied medical anthropology with specialties in food insecurity, globalization and health, and healthcare delivery systems. She has led over 30 research projects addressing topics such as food security among college students, physician assistant roles in healthcare, and community health initiatives.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Anthropology, Southern Methodist University (1999)
• M.A. in Anthropology, Southern Methodist University (1996)
• B.S. in Anthropology, Southern Methodist University (1991)
• B.A. in Psychology, Southern Methodist University (1991)

Research Interests:

• Food insecurity dynamics in college populations
• Cultural integration of healthcare professions (e.g., physician assistants)
• Indigenous healing systems and biomedicine
• Public health policy and community engagement

Key Projects:

• North Texas Food Bank-funded study on regional food security factors
• Dean of Students-funded research on college student hunger
• Decade-long study on physician assistant roles in American medicine

Awards & Leadership:

• Past-President, National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA)

Advising & Grants:

• Directed 30+ research projects across diverse health topics
• Secured grants for food security and healthcare workforce studies

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with UNT's Office of the Dean of Students, North Texas Food Bank, Denton County Health Department, and interdisciplinary anthropological teams.