Lynne Borden

Lynne Borden is a Professor and Associate Dean of Research and Engagement at UMN Extension, part of the University of Minnesota. She holds a PhD in Human Resources and Family Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, an MA in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Colorado at Denver, and a BA in Elementary Education from the University of Northern Colorado.

Her research focuses on understanding youth relationships and their developmental impacts, particularly through community-based programs. Key areas include military families, public policy, and programs addressing at-risk youth and families. She leads the Center for Research and Outreach (REACH), which supports military families and operates the Military REACH initiative. Additionally, she directs the CYFAR PDTA Center, enhancing USDA-funded programs for vulnerable families.

Dr. Borden has received multiple awards, including the 2018 ACES Alumni Career Achievement Award and the 2012 Outstanding Engagement Award. Her work emphasizes translational research that bridges academia and community practice, with a focus on policy-informed solutions.

Grants include a $3.49M USDA-NIFA CYFAR grant (2013) for technical assistance and professional development. She teaches FSoS 8200: Orientation for Family Social Science. Her outreach includes collaborations with the Department of Defense and presentations on military family reintegration, youth development, and program evaluation.