LEXINGTON, Ky. — The College of Social Work (CoSW) is proud to welcome Dr. Nicole McKenna as an Assistant Professor in Criminal Justice.
With a professional background grounded in trauma-informed practice and youth-focused interventions, McKenna brings a depth of knowledge and lived experience to her academic work. She has served in many roles across the justice and social service spectrum, including as a case manager, peer advocate, adult substance use counselor, and after-school program manager for youth.
Prior to joining CoSW, McKenna was an Assistant Professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she also taught college-level courses inside a youth detention center. Her research incorporates community participatory action methods, emphasizing collaboration and equity in justice research.
McKenna earned her bachelor’s degree in Justice Studies with a minor in Psychology from Westminster University in Salt Lake City. She holds a Master’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Arizona State University and a PhD in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati. She completed postdoctoral research at the Rutgers University School of Social Work.
“Dr. McKenna’s expertise in youth justice, trauma-informed care, and participatory research methods will be an incredible asset to our growing criminal justice program,” said Dr. Jackie Duron, Associate Dean of Faculty Advancement. “Her teaching and research align deeply with our commitment to transformative, justice-oriented education.”
“I’m really looking forward to joining the College of Social Work at UK in the new criminal justice program,” McKenna said. “Much of my experience and interest sits at the intersection of criminal justice and social work, and I am excited to be part of a program that embodies that. I’m eager to develop relationships with the community and UK’s students to create more trauma-informed and just approaches for supporting youth.”
In addition to her academic accomplishments, McKenna is certified in Participatory Action Research, Trauma-Informed Care, and Restorative Justice.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys hosting game and craft nights, watching reality TV (especially The Real Housewives), and spending time with her cat, Freya—who, according to her, quickly becomes everyone’s favorite.
She is currently collaborating on a book and conference presentations exploring The Real Housewives of Crime, blending pop culture with criminological theory.
To learn more about Dr. McKenna’s work, visit her LinkedIn profile.
