Helyne Frederick

Helyne Frederick, Ph.D., MPH, C.F.L.E., is a Clinical Professor and Program Director of Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) at the UNC School of Education. She previously held roles as Associate Professor and Program Director at Winthrop University, where she established an HDFS program. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas Tech University, an MPH from Eastern Kentucky University, and a B.A. in Psychology from Midwestern State University.

Dr. Frederick’s research focuses on familial and extra-familial factors influencing risky sexual behaviors among adolescents and young adults, particularly Black and Caribbean youth. She employs both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including analyses of the National Longitudinal Study on Adolescent Health and cross-cultural studies in Grenada. Her work also addresses culturally responsive pedagogy in family life education and teaching strategies for large classes.

Her awards include the Woman of Excellence Recognition (2017), Golden Apple Award for Teaching Excellence (2015), and First Place Project Winner (2016). She has secured grants totaling over $50,000 for projects like exploring barriers to Black women’s gynecological care and developing service-learning courses on health disparities.

Dr. Frederick oversees HDFS internships at UNC, placing students in educational, health, and social service organizations. She advises the Carolina Student Council on Family Relations and chairs committees for interprofessional education and program evaluation. Her service spans roles in institutional boards, IRBs, and community initiatives focused on youth development and family well-being.