Research Fellows
Research Fellows are faculty members at Western Kentucky University with a specific portion of their effort allocated toward the actualization of the mission of the LifeSkills Center for Child Welfare Education and Research. The LCCWEAR is excited about this new position, and looks forward to partnering with interdisciplinary faculty members at WKU as we work to build a stronger interdisciplinary alliance.
Research Fellow
Dr. Erin Warfel is an Assistant Professor and Master of Social Work (MSW) Program Director in the Department of Social Work at Western Kentucky University. Originally from Pennsylvania, Dr. Warfel earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Shippensburg University, a Master of Social Work and Master of Law and Social Policy from Bryn Maw College, and her DSW from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN. Dr. Warfel is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 20 years of practice experience in the areas of children’s mental health, juvenile justice, and therapeutic foster care.
270-745-8923
Research Fellow
Dr. Whitney Cassity-Caywood is an Assistant Pedagogical Professor and BSW Program Director of Social Work at WKUand a Research Affiliate for the LifeSkills Center for Child Welfare Education and Research. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Transylvania University and her Master of Science in Social Work and her Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Louisville. Dr. Cassity-Caywood's current research focuses on how advocates and therapists working within Kentucky's Child Advocacy Centers and Sexual Violence Resource Centers adapt their practices to continue delivering services during COVID-19. Her previous research has focused on mental health issues, particularly in rural areas. In addition to her work as an educator and researcher, Dr. Cassity-Caywood is a practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker and also serves on the Kentucky Board of Social Work.
whitney.cassitycaywood@wku.edu
270-745-7078
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