LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work has announced Dr. Robyn Napier’s appointment as Instructor in the Clinical Title Series. Napier brings 26 years of extensive experience in rural social work, primarily in behavioral health, and a strong background in higher education.
A native of Hyden, Kentucky, Napier has dedicated her career to serving rural communities across Eastern Kentucky. Over more than a decade, she worked as a behavioral health therapist at the University of Kentucky North Fork Valley Community Health Clinic in Hazard, Ky., providing whole-person care, integrating behavioral health services into primary care, and addressing social determinants of health. She has additionally served as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Supervisor for licensees in Kentucky.
Academically, Napier has been teaching since 2011 as a part-time instructor at the College of Social Work, delivering both undergraduate and graduate courses—most notably in Research Methods and Rural Social Work—and contributing to course design and development. She has also served as a field practicum supervisor for BASW and MSW students, providing hands-on clinical experience. Since 2021, she has been a faculty and academic advisor with the Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies, mentoring doctoral-level students in their Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) journey.
Napier earned her Doctorate in Behavioral Health (DBH) with a clinical concentration from Arizona State University; her Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Louisville’s Kent School of Social Work; and her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Morehead State University. She has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Kentucky since 2006.
“Dr. Napier brings a depth of rural practice experience and a commitment to student mentorship that will greatly benefit our College,” said Dr. Jackie Duron, Associate Dean of Faculty Advancement. “Her long-standing service to Eastern Kentucky communities and her strengths in behavioral health integration align beautifully with our mission and values. We are thrilled to welcome her to our faculty.”
In her spare time, Napier enjoys serving her community, spending time with her family, reading, watching documentaries, traveling to new places, spending time outdoors in nature, and relaxing by the lake.
Please join us in celebrating Dr. Robyn Napier’s appointment and in welcoming her to the College of Social Work community.
Connect with Dr. Napier on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robyn-napier-189948180
