Larry P. Ortiz

Larry P. Ortiz is a Professor and Program Director at the School of Behavioral Health, Loma Linda University, where he leads both the PhD in Social Welfare/Social Research and the DSW in Clinical Leadership (Online) programs. He is a central figure in social work education, research, and community engagement, with a strong focus on racial justice, Latino communities, and faith-based social services.

• Doctor of Philosophy, University at Buffalo, SUNY, 1987

Dr. Ortiz’s research is deeply rooted in critical race theory, cultural competence, and health equity. His work explores mental health disparities among Korean Americans and Latinos, the role of faith communities in social service delivery, and the integration of social justice principles in social work education. He frequently collaborates with interdisciplinary teams and emphasizes community-based participatory methods.

His recent publications reflect a strong trend toward addressing health disparities, racial justice, and community resilience. Themes include critical race pedagogy, immigrant mental health, faith-based housing, and cultural determinants of wellbeing. His work appears in journals such as Journal of Social Work Education, Urban Affairs Review, and International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

• Society for Social Work Research (2006–Present)
• Association of Latino Social Work Educators (1995–Present)
• Council on Social Work Education (1988–Present)
• National Association of Social Workers – Academy of Certified Social Workers (1979–Present)

Dr. Ortiz has served as Principal Investigator on multiple internal research grants at Loma Linda University, focusing on Latino health, Black and Latino gender-diverse youth, Korean American mental health, and moral injury in Black Zulu South Africans. He has also contributed to professional development through accreditation visits (CSWE), manuscript reviewing for journals like Urban Social Work and British Journal of Social Work, and textbook reviewing for major publishers. His teaching includes doctoral-level courses in research methods, diversity, and dissertation development, indicating active mentorship and academic leadership.