Dr. Raven Lynch is a three-time Ohio State alum with over a decade of experience in social justice-based practice, research, and teaching. Her social work practice and research has been focused on mental health, identity, and youth empowerment, with extensive experience in developing and evaluating mentoring and empowerment programs, facilitating leadership development & DEI initiatives, and leading community engagement efforts focused on community change. Having worked in a variety of settings, the common thread through her career has been a commitment to fostering individual and collective well-being across micro, mezzo, and macro social work practice. Her research and expertise in identity, social justice, and youth development have been featured in academic discussions, national conferences, and community forums.
Dr. Lynch brings her practice wisdom into the classroom through inclusive, humanizing pedagogy that empowers students to explore the full scope of social work practice. Raven has taught at both urban and rural universities and utilizes varied learning strategies, critical reflection, and an emphasis on relationship building to support student growth. She continues to engage with community-focused organizations through research and consulting.
Education
BA – The Ohio State University, 2014 – Psychology
MSW – The Ohio State University, 2017 – Social Work
PhD – The Ohio State University, 2022 – Social Work
Areas of expertise
Racial identity
Critical race and critical multiracial theory
Youth and community empowerment and mentoring
Program development and evaluation
