معرفی
Kelly Melekis is an Associate Professor in the Social Work Department at Skidmore College. Her academic work bridges gerontological social work, health policy, and interprofessional education. She teaches courses on Death and Dying, Research Methods for Social Justice, and Social Work Practice.
- PhD in Sociology and Social Work (2012) from Boston University
- MSW in Gerontology (2001) from UC Berkeley
- BSW with Gerontology Certificate (1998) from University of Vermont
Her research focuses on the health and well-being of vulnerable older adults, particularly those experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, and social marginalization. She emphasizes community-based participatory methods and social justice frameworks to amplify marginalized voices. Key themes include:
- Homelessness and housing policy
- Interprofessional practice in aging
- Social environment and aging
- Palliative care education
- Substance use in older populations
Recent publications demonstrate interprofessional collaboration (SBIRT training), housing-first models, and end-of-life care. Her work spans journals like The Gerontologist, Aging & Mental Health, and Journal of Aging and Environment.
Dr. Melekis has practiced as a clinical social worker in geriatric mental health and substance use settings. She has also taught at Boston University, University of Hawaii, and University of Vermont. Professional memberships include:
- Gerontological Society of America
- American Society on Aging
- Council on Social Work Education
- Global Partnership for Transformative Social Work
Outside academia, she enjoys hiking, reading memoirs, live music, and maple lattes. Her teaching and research reflect a commitment to equity in aging services and experiential learning.
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