Keren M. Escobar

Keren M. Escobar serves as Assistant Professor of Social Work within Oakland University's Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Social Work and Criminal Justice. Holding a Ph.D. from the University of Windsor, she integrates extensive clinical experience and her personal background as an El Salvadoran immigrant refugee into evidence-based teaching focused on social justice.

Education

• Ph.D., University of Windsor, Canada

Research Focus: Dr. Escobar employs critical race theory and intersectionality to investigate public health inequities among Latin American communities in Canada. Her work centers on the Hispanic Health Paradox, examining mental health disparities, diabetes outcomes, and culturally adapted interventions through systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Publication Trends: Recent research (2023-2025) analyzes mood disorders and diabetes within the Hispanic Health Paradox framework in Canadian contexts, while earlier work (2018-2020) explores colon cancer care in Hispanic enclaves and culturally sensitive interventions for anxiety/depression. Her methodology consistently emphasizes cultural adaptation and vulnerable population analysis.

Teaching: Courses include Advanced Practice with Individuals/Families/Groups, Multicultural Social Work, and Social Welfare Policies, utilizing active learning to develop critically engaged practitioners.