Dr. Kristin McCowan is a researcher, educator, facilitator, and social work professional whose work centers on advancing equity and community well-being. She holds a Ph.D. in Social Welfare from the University of Washington and a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Policy, Planning, and Administration from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Her areas of expertise include adolescent well-being, sociopolitical development, substance use, mental health practices, and multicultural education. Dr. McCowan is the founder and Principal Consultant at K. McCowan & Associates, LLC,  where she collaborates with local organizations on program design, research & evaluation, community engagement and organizational strategy, ensuring that initiatives are grounded in the lived experiences of the communities they serve. Her work is deeply rooted in centering community voice and advancing racial equity, positioning her as a leader in promoting social justice and holistic well-being.

Dr. McCowan also serves on the board for the Center for Authentic Listening and Learning (C.A.L.L), a nonprofit committed to preserving the land and legacy of Missouri’s first Black resort, Lake Placid, rooted in Dr. P.C. Turner’s 1934 stewardship, the founder of the land. Our mission is to steward a vision of serenity and liberation for people in nature at Lake Placid, MO. Recognizing the land as a living organism, we approach this journey toward cultural and economic wholeness by listening to the stories from the community and honoring the humanity of Black people.