Keith A. Alford

Keith A. Alford serves as Dean of the University at Buffalo School of Social Work, leading strategic initiatives since 2021. His leadership emphasizes racial equity, trauma-informed frameworks, and community engagement within the school’s five-year strategic plan.

• PhD and MSW from The Ohio State University
• BA in History/Sociology from Coker University

Alford specializes in culturally specific interventions for vulnerable populations, including family mental health, rites of passage programming for African American males, and kinship care innovations. His work bridges technology (e.g., smartphone tools) with child welfare practices to enhance relational competence.

His research focuses on child welfare, trauma, and cultural competence, supported by grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, New York State Office of Mental Health, and National Science Foundation. He co-developed trauma research training for diverse undergraduates and promotes equity in the intelligence field.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Inclusion Diversity Equity Awareness (IDEA) Award (2024)
• Top 30 Most Influential Social Workers (2014)
• Trailblazer Recognition (2021)

Alford has secured grants including U.S. Department of Health and Human Services funding for child welfare programs and National Science Foundation support for trauma research training. He also serves on the board of Youth Research Inc., advising New York’s Office of Children and Family Services.