Saint Joseph's University
Health Services
349 Brighton Road
Plymouth Meeting
PAUSA
19462
Biographical Sketch: As a registered nurse working in critical care, Dr. Black saw many individuals presenting with preventable injuries and diseases and realized a larger number of people would benefit if communities focused on prevention rather than treatment. After earning her Ph.D. in health studies, Dr. Black evaluated local health programs addressing bullying, youth gun carrying, children’s exposure to domestic violence substance abuse, and childhood obesity. Program funders included the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities, Children’s Trust Fund, William Penn Foundation, and Pennsylvania Department of Education. From 2001-2006, she conducted one of the longest running independent evaluations of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program in the United States. Drawing on her experiences with nursing observations, analytical chemistry, and social sciences research, Dr. Black developed the novel technique of measuring violence-related behaviors through lunch and recess observations. Dr. Black’s preferred area of expertise is evidence-based programs in youth violence prevention.