Ryan C. Ivory, LISW-S, is a dedicated Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor, Visiting Assistant Professor at Miami University, and doctoral candidate in Clinical Social Work at the University of Kentucky. With over 14 years of experience in mental health, addiction services, and social justice advocacy, Ryan has committed her career to addressing systemic inequities and improving the lives of marginalized populations. A proud graduate of the University of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in African American Studies and a Master of Social Work, which shaped her passion for advancing equity and inclusion.
Ryan’s career has been marked by her leadership in mental health and addiction services, particularly in addressing health disparities within the African American community. She actively advocates for racism to be recognized as a public health crisis and integrates this framework into her work as a clinician, educator, and advocate. As a Visiting Assistant Professor, she inspires and equips future social workers with the tools to address societal challenges and advocate for systemic change.
Ryan’s doctoral research currently focuses on bridging the gap from disparity to equity, with an emphasis on adverse birth experiences and obstetric racism. Her work seeks to uncover the impact of systemic racism on maternal and infant health outcomes and develop strategies for fostering equitable and culturally informed care.
Ryan’s influence extends beyond her academic and professional roles. As a TEDx Dayton speaker, she delivered a powerful talk addressing critical health disparity issues, inspiring audiences. Ryan has co-authored a social work text and serves on local & national committees.
DSW Showcase Student Presentation
Ryan Ivory
Visting Assistant Professor (Miami University, Oxford)
Race, Bias & Birth: The Persistent Problem of Obstetric Racism
Concentration - Clinical Social Work
- Tuesday, April 29, 2025 -
- 9:00 am
Abstract
This presentation will explore the pervasive issue of obstetric racism, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of systemic inequity in healthcare. Obstetric racism refers to the discriminatory practices and biases that disproportionately affect women of color during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. The presentation will begin by defining obstetric racism and providing a historical context, highlighting how entrenched racial disparities in maternal health outcomes have persisted over time, rooted in both historical and contemporary inequalities. We will delve into the ways that implicit bias, stereotyping, and unequal treatment manifest in clinical practices, resulting in higher rates of maternal morbidity and mortality for African American women. Key topics will include the influence of race on pain management, patient-provider communication, and decision-making during childbirth, as well as the impact of socio-economic factors, such as access to quality care, on these disparities.
The presentation will also examine the intersectionality of race, gender, and class, demonstrating how compounded disadvantages affect the health and well-being of marginalized women. In conclusion, strategies to address obstetric racism will be discussed, emphasizing the importance of culturally competent care, implicit bias training, advocacy for policy changes, and community-based support systems. This presentation aims to foster understanding, encourage change in healthcare practices, and inspire action to ensure culturally sensitive, respectful, and compassionate care for African American women during childbirth.