Margaret McGladrey

Professor Margaret McGladrey is a distinguished academic collaborating on research in the Department of Mental Health Law and Policy at the University of South Florida. As an Assistant Professor, she plays a pivotal role in advancing the department's mission through her leadership as the faculty co-lead of the Criminal Legal System Workgroup and as the Photovoice site lead for the HEALing Communities Study-Kentucky. Her work is characterized by a strong commitment to participatory health research and community engagement, which she achieves by partnering with a diverse array of agencies, including schools, nonprofits, and recovery organizations. Before joining the University of South Florida, Professor McGladrey served as the Assistant Dean for Research at the University of Kentucky's College of Public Health. In this capacity, she was instrumental in fostering interdisciplinary research initiatives that garnered funding from prestigious organizations such as the NIH and CDC. Her efforts in these projects have culminated in the publication of 20 scholarly articles, contributing significantly to the fields of public health and sociology. Professor McGladrey's academic journey is marked by her impressive educational background. She earned her PhD in Sociology and Gender and Women's Studies, which provided her with a robust foundation in understanding complex social dynamics and gender issues. Further enhancing her expertise, she completed a Postdoctoral degree in Sociology/Civic Studies at Tufts University, where she honed her skills in civic engagement and interdisciplinary research methodologies. Her research interests are deeply rooted in interdisciplinary approaches, with a particular focus on participatory health research and community engagement. Through her work, she seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications in communities, striving to create impactful solutions to pressing social issues. Professor McGladrey's dedication to her field is evident in her active involvement in various research projects and her commitment to fostering collaborative relationships with community partners. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also empowers communities to take an active role in addressing their health and social challenges. In addition to her research and academic responsibilities, Professor McGladrey is a passionate advocate for the integration of community voices in research processes. She believes that meaningful change can only be achieved through the active participation of those directly affected by the issues being studied. Overall, Professor Margaret McGladrey's contributions to the field of sociology and public health are marked by her innovative research, commitment to community engagement, and dedication to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations. Her work continues to inspire and drive positive change in the communities she serves.