Biography
Professor Kaylyn Townsend-Kensinger, MSW, is an instructor in the social work department at Niagara University. Prof. Kensinger earned her master’s in social work from the University of Pennsylvania with a macro concentration. Prof. Kensinger also has a bachelor’s in social work and a bachelor’s in psychology from Niagara University. Prof. Kensinger has certificates in New York State Public Health Essentials (Cornell University Public Health Program), Organizational Leadership in Social Work (University of Pennsylvania School of Policy & Practice and the Wharton School), and the Building Expertise in Administration & Management (BEAM) certificate (University of Miami Herbert Business School).
Prof. Kensinger is a macro-trained, social work practitioner who is passionate about systems-based change and social policy. She collaborates with the Rose Bente Lee Ostapenko Center for Race, Equity, and Mission to advance social justice. She trains students working with the Center on voter registration, policy advocacy, and youth development and leadership through the Center’s annual youth conference project.
Prof. Kensinger’s research interests include social determinants of health and health disparities. Prof. Kensinger serves on the following committees: the Niagara County Coalition for Health Equity; the Western New York Digital Equity Coalition; Regional Equitable Health Infrastructure Network of Western New York (RETHINK) Western New York; Niagara County Suicide Prevention Coalition; Mount St. Mary’s Hospital Patient Advisory Committee; and the Niagara Falls Local Food Action Plan Leadership Team. Prof. Kensinger currently practices in the community as a grant writer for the Niagara Falls Housing Authority.