Daphne Henry, an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology, has teamed up with the Kingsley Association for the Teen L.E.A.D. program. The program, which stands for Leadership, Education, Assistance, and Development, is an enrichment program open to all youth ages 13 to 19.
According to their website, the purpose is to “develop a positive self-image in all participants.” Over the years, several labs at the University have engaged in community outreach with the Kingsley Association. Henry’s lab recently became connected with them and offered to host a campus visit and some workshops in exchange for a study her lab is conducting.
“We are recruiting for a research study that's focused on family and youth health, and reached out to Kingsley to see if, you know, there might be some interest among youth who participate in their programs and learning more about our study, but because my lab is a community-engaged lab and is trying to build its community footprint, you know, we're always looking for ways that we can kind of engage in reciprocal relationships with community-based organizations.”
The event last week included over 30 students who learned about college readiness, financial aid and paying for college, as well as deciding on a major. Additionally, a workshop was conducted by some members of Henry’s clinical program on dealing with stress.
Some of the other speakers from the Dietrich School included Associate Dean for Equity, Faculty Development, and Community Engagement and Psychology Professor, Natasha Tokowicz, and Director of Equity and Community Engagement, Jim Griffin.
The Teen L.E.A.D. program is currently in summer session and will be opening up applications for their fall session soon.