Elizabeth Keenan

Elizabeth Keenan is a Professor in the Department of Social Work at Southern Connecticut State University. She holds a Ph.D. from Smith College School for Social Work and an MSW from Loyola University Chicago, and is a licensed clinical social worker in Connecticut. Her career spans clinical practice and community leadership, with a focus on anti-racism, equity, and inclusion.

• Ph.D., Smith College School for Social Work
• MSW, Loyola University Chicago

Her research and teaching emphasize anti-oppressive practices, culturally responsive pedagogy, and community leadership. Key themes include dismantling systemic inequities, fostering inclusive spaces in higher education, and integrating mindfulness into social work education. Her recent publications explore heuristic frameworks for anti-racist practice and small-scale interventions within oppressive systems.

Grants highlight her work on racial justice initiatives, including Narrative 4 Story Exchange projects and workshops on anti-racist teaching. She has presented extensively at conferences like the Council on Social Work Education and Smith College School for Social Work, focusing on curriculum innovation and equity-driven pedagogy. Her service includes advising and promoting intersectional justice within the university and departmental structures.