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Phylicia Bediako
Violence and Injury Prevention Specialist - Trauma Healing Researcher - Consultant - Coach - Writer
Professional Background
Phylicia Bediako, PhD, is a dedicated academic and professional in the field of health policy and social work. With a robust foundation in health policy and management, she has cultivated a diverse career that encompasses research, community engagement, and program administration. Dr. Bediako's journey began with her undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH). This foundational education equipped her with the necessary skills and insights to address complex health issues, paving the way for her subsequent academic pursuits.
Dr. Bediako advanced her studies by pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) at the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, specializing in Violence and Injury Prevention. This program further strengthened her commitment to addressing social issues, particularly those that affect vulnerable populations. Continuing her path, she earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Policy and Administration, with a dual focus in Demography, from Penn State University. During her doctoral studies, she deepened her understanding of health policies and their implications for community wellbeing.
Dr. Bediako's professional career is highlighted by her diverse roles in both academic and practical settings. She has served as a Research Assistant at Forward Cities, where she focused on innovative solutions to strengthen marginalized urban communities. In addition, she gained administrative experience as the Curriculum Administrator for the Arizona Trauma Institute, contributing to trauma-informed care practices. Her earlier roles as a Community Engagement Data Fellow at the Community Innovation & Action Center and as a Practicum Student at both Ready by 21/United Way and LinkSTL further reflect her dedication to translating research insights into actionable community interventions.
Additionally, Dr. Bediako took on a leadership role as the Director of Afterschool Programs at The North Campus, where she managed programs that fostered a supportive learning environment for young people. Her postdoctoral experience at New York University added depth to her research capabilities, allowing her to contribute to advanced studies in health policy and social work. Throughout her career, Dr. Bediako has also amassed experience in various internships across institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Maimonides Medical Center, honing her skills in health policy application and community health management.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Bediako's educational journey is marked by esteemed institutions and a commitment to excellence. She received her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a university renowned for its focus on public health education and research. The knowledge and competencies she developed during her undergraduate studies became the cornerstone of her career in health policy.
Her completion of a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the prestigious Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis represents her commitment to understanding social dynamics, particularly concerning Violence and Injury Prevention. This specialized education allowed her to study preventative measures within community contexts and implement strategies aimed at reducing violence and enhancing social welfare.
Phylicia's dedication to advancing her education culminated in her Doctorate in Health Policy and Administration, along with a dual-title in Demography from Penn State University. Her dissertation research focused on critical health policy issues influencing various demographic groups, underscoring her analytical prowess and commitment to evidence-based solutions for public health challenges.
Achievements
Dr. Bediako's professional achievements are a testament to her deep understanding of health policy and her commitment to community wellbeing. Throughout her career, she has contributed to multiple organizations, spearheading initiatives that align with social justice, public health improvement, and community empowerment. In her role with Forward Cities, she engaged in research that addressed urban disparities, gathering valuable data to inform policy-making and community interrelations.
Through her work at the Arizona Trauma Institute, she focused on developing curricula that incorporate trauma-informed practices, helping health professionals to better respond to the needs of affected populations. Her fellowship at New York University further solidified her research capabilities, enabling her to publish findings and collaborate with leading scholars in the field.
In addition to her research and academic achievements, Dr. Bediako remains involved in community-based initiatives, actively participating in projects that promote health equity and inclusivity. This extensive background enables her to merge research with practical application, advocating for policies that uplift communities and enhance health outcomes for all individuals.
Overall, Phylicia Bediako, PhD, exemplifies a multi-faceted professional dedicated to improving health policies and fostering community engagement. Her educational background and diverse work experiences culminate in a robust career committed to driving meaningful change in public health and social work.
