Robert Keefe

Robert Keefe is an Associate Professor at the University at Buffalo's School of Social Work. He specializes in public health social work, focusing on health disparities, health access, and healthcare outcomes for marginalized populations. His work emphasizes culturally sensitive services for mothers of color, particularly addressing postpartum depression and prenatal care barriers.

Education:

• PhD in Social Welfare, University at Albany (1996)
• MSSA in Social Administration, Case Western Reserve University (1985)
• BA in Sociology, Ithaca College (1983)

Research Interests: Dr. Keefe's research prioritizes maternal health equity, particularly among low-income mothers of color. He investigates structural barriers to healthcare access and advocates for trauma-informed care. His projects include a Fahs-Beck Foundation-funded study on postpartum depression and collaborations with community organizations to improve health literacy and reduce disparities.

Awards:

• Public Health Social Worker of the Year (American Public Health Association, 2011)
• Fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine (2013)

Grants & Advising: He leads the MSW/MPH dual degree program and has secured grant funding for community-based interventions. His work bridges academic research with practical solutions, such as mobile app development for underrepresented mental health consumers and trauma-informed policy frameworks.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with the Buffalo Center for Social Research and community partners on projects addressing gun violence, health inequities, and maternal mental health advocacy.