Linda Wesp

Linda Wesp is an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, College of Nursing, specializing in health equity and culturally safe care for marginalized populations. Her work emphasizes LGBTQIA+ health, transgender care, and HIV/AIDS advocacy through participatory research and community-driven interventions.

• Ph.D. in Nursing (2019), University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
• M.S.N. in Family Nurse Practitioner (2006), University of Illinois at Chicago
• B.S.N. (2000), Loyola University Chicago (Summa Cum Laude)

Dr. Wesp’s research focuses on combating systemic inequities in healthcare delivery for transgender, gender non-conforming, and sex worker communities. She integrates critical race theory, postcolonialism, and intersectionality into frameworks for structural analysis of health disparities. Her scholarship includes co-editing Clinicians Guide to LGBTQIA+ Care and developing national guidelines for gender-affirming care.

Recent publications highlight trends in HIV prevention (PrEP access for Black transgender women), transgender cancer screening protocols, and stigma reduction strategies in clinical settings. Her work often bridges clinical practice with social justice, emphasizing patient-centered care and community collaboration.

Scientific Awards

• 2022: UWM College of Nursing Community-Engaged Practice Award
• 2016-2018: Jonas Nurse Leader Scholar
• 2017-2018: UWM Chancellor’s Award (multiple years)
• 2006: Howard Brown Staff Spirit Award
• 2000: Inductee, Sigma Theta Tau Honors Nursing Society
• Multiple awards from Loyola University Chicago (1996-2000) and Sigma Theta Tau (2017)

Dr. Wesp co-led the Wisconsin HIV/AIDS Oral History Project and has secured grants like the HRSA-STARs Program for culturally safe nursing education. She actively contributes to transgender health policy and clinical training initiatives.