Susan Henney

Dedicated to building bridges between disciplines in psychology and social welfare, Dr. Susan Henney is a distinguished professor at the University of Houston-Downtown. With a Ph.D. from the University of Texas, Dr. Henney has made significant contributions to the fields of parenting and volunteerism through her extensive research and teaching. Her academic journey is marked by a commitment to understanding the intricate dynamics of human development and social service. At the University of Houston-Downtown, Dr. Henney is responsible for a diverse array of courses, including child development, adolescent development, health policy, and volunteer management. Her pedagogical approach is characterized by an emphasis on experiential learning and critical thinking, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with complex societal issues. Her dedication to teaching excellence was recognized with the UHD Excellence in Teaching award in 2012. Dr. Henney's research interests lie at the intersection of volunteerism and parenting, where she explores how these domains influence individual and community well-being. Her scholarly work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, contributing valuable insights to the academic community and beyond. Her research not only advances theoretical understanding but also informs practical applications in policy and community service. Beyond academia, Dr. Henney has a rich history of service in child welfare and protective services. She has served as a Policy Intern at the Child Welfare League of America, where she gained firsthand experience in shaping policies that impact children's lives. Her role as a caseworker for Texas Child Protective Services provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, further informing her teaching and research. Additionally, Dr. Henney has contributed to the professional development of others as a trainer for the Texas Protective Services Training Institute. Her efforts in this capacity have helped equip social service professionals with the skills necessary to effectively support children and families in need. Her commitment to service was honored with the UHD Excellence in Service award in 2016, underscoring her impact both within and outside the university. Dr. Henney continues to inspire students and colleagues alike with her passion for fostering positive change through education, research, and community engagement. Her work exemplifies the transformative power of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing the pressing challenges of our time.