Lydia Todd

Lydia Todd is a Lecturer in the Department of Sociology at the University of Massachusetts Boston. With over 35 years of experience in Massachusetts criminal justice and human service systems, she bridges practical knowledge with academic instruction. Her perspective is shaped by her lived experience as a 'DCF kid' (Department of Children and Families) and as a mother of five, alongside her former role as an Air Force medical service corps officer. She focuses on equipping students with tools to align their passions with post-graduation career pathways.

• B.S. in Social Psychology from Park University
• M.A. in Applied Sociology from UMass Boston
• M.A./M.Phil. in Sociology from Yale University

Her expertise spans strategic planning, organizational change, disparities in system delivery, policy analysis, advocacy, coalition building, curriculum development, and accreditation/licensing of residential facilities. She has served mental health, child welfare, juvenile justice, criminal justice, and corrections communities in government and non-profit settings, working with children, adolescents, and adults.