Suggestions
Meredith Feike, Ph.D.
Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Recruitment & Student Affairs, Tulane University
Professional Background
Dr. Meredith M. Feike is a highly accomplished Applied Anthropologist and Geographer with extensive expertise in various critical areas including program development and management, academic and student affairs administration, and resilience programming. Currently, she holds the position of Clinical Associate Professor and Newcomb Fellow at the prestigious Tulane University. As the Director of Recruitment & Student Affairs at Tulane University's Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy, Dr. Feike plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in disaster management and resilience initiatives.
Having accumulated a wealth of experience since her post-Katrina fieldwork in the Vietnamese community of Eastern Orleans Parish, Dr. Feike’s research significantly contributed to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Coastal Community Resilience Index (CRI) Project. This groundbreaking work has led to several forthcoming publications and numerous invitations for her to present at a wide array of both domestic and international conferences, underscoring her stature as a thought leader in her field.
In addition to her academic responsibilities, Dr. Feike is deeply committed to community engagement and leadership development. As President of the Tulane University Women's Association and Chairwoman of the Women in Action program, she directs initiatives aimed at empowering local underprivileged women, effectively fostering a network of social support while equipping them with essential career development tools. Her dedication to enhancing the lives of those in her community is matched only by her academic and professional accomplishments.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Feike's academic journey is marked by her commitment to excellence and a deep passion for understanding cultural dynamics and resilience in communities. She obtained her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geography (specializing in Anthrogeography) and Disaster Science and Management from Louisiana State University, where she also earned her Master of Arts (M.A.) in Cultural Anthropology. The foundation of her education is rooted in the social sciences, having graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History and Political Science from Tulane University. Her early educational experiences at the Louise S. McGehee School have undoubtedly laid a strong groundwork for her later achievements.
Dr. Feike’s intellectual rigor and hands-on experience are complemented by her leadership roles within various academic and professional organizations. As a member of the Junior League of New Orleans, the International Union of Anthropological and Ethnological Sciences, and the American Anthropological Association, she actively participates in enriching academic dialogues and networking opportunities that modernize the understanding and practices around disaster relief and resilience.
Key Contributions and Impact
Among her key contributions, Dr. Feike founded the NOLA Little Cultural Explorers, illustrating her visionary approach to community engagement and education. Her dedication to disaster anthropology enables her to work extensively in capacity building, human rights, and humanitarian assistance within at-risk communities. Dr. Feike’s expertise in emergency management, vulnerability reduction, and trauma studies positions her as a critical voice in contemporary discussions around disaster risk reduction and mitigation strategies.
Furthermore, Dr. Feike's role as the Academic Lead for the Tulane Trauma Project highlights her integral part in addressing mental and emotional resilience in the aftermath of disasters. By bridging academia with practical application, she enhances the learning experiences of students and community members alike, fostering environments where innovation and recovery coexist.
Her community outreach, service learning, and volunteer management initiatives serve to empower diverse populations and build a foundation of resilience that is not just theoretical but actionable. The mentorship program under her leadership is a beacon of hope for local women, helping them navigate both career development and personal empowerment to break the cycle of poverty effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr. Meredith M. Feike stands out as a leader in the intersection of anthropology, geography, and disaster science, shaping the future of higher education, community resilience, and humanitarian efforts. Her multifaceted engagement in academia, community service, and advocacy for underprivileged populations underscores her role as a prominent figure in her field. With a strong educational background, impressive networking capabilities, and a wealth of experience, Dr. Feike is poised to continue making significant contributions that will ripple across both local and global communities, fostering resilience and empowerment wherever she goes.
