Melinda Lewis

Melinda Lewis is a Professor of Practice at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, where she teaches graduate-level macro social work and policy courses. She directs the Center for Community Engagement and Collaboration, leading initiatives in public scholarship, community-engaged research, and strategic partnerships. Her work emphasizes economic justice, family support, and human rights advocacy.

Education:

• BSW from University of Kansas
• MSW from Washington University in St. Louis

Research Interests:

• Anti-oppressive community engagement strategies
• Policy advocacy for economic equity
• Public scholarship and media engagement
• Children’s Savings Accounts and wealth creation

Awards:

• 2024 International Affairs Advisory Board International Teaching Award

Grants & Partnerships:

• Lead for the School’s Costa Rica study abroad program since 2022
• Former Assistant Director of the Center on Assets, Education, and Inclusion (AEDI)
• Co-developer of the Tangible Hope podcast on wealth inequality

Labs/Teams:

• Center for Community Engagement and Collaboration
• International Social Work Partnership in Costa Rica