Caryn Bell, PhD, is the 2022-2023 Scholar-in-Residence at Center for Public Service

The Center for Public Service is proud to present Caryn Bell, PhD, as its 2022-2023 Scholar-in-Residence.

Bell’s research focuses on the unique impacts of socioeconomic status (SES) and place on cardiovascular disease risk factors in Black Americans and racial disparities. Her work explores the nuanced ways in which SES is associated with obesity and related behaviors in Black women and men by examining the role of place and sociocultural factors. She uses varied techniques including spatial statistics and mapping approaches. She also examines how place shapes structural racism in the U.S. and the implications for Black health and racial health inequities. She teaches courses on health equity, racism and health, as well as place and Black health in the U.S. 

During her tenure as CPS Scholar-in-Residence, Bell plans to conduct research on various aspects of the community-based wellness promotion program called I Deserve It, which was developed by the Ashé Cultural Arts Center and is a collaborative effort with the New Orleans East Hospital, Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, local public health agencies, and other community-based organizations. The main goals of the program are to connect Black residents of the Claiborne Corridor with resources and services related to the social determinants of health (e.g., housing, healthy food access, medical care, etc.) through community health workers and to build community capacity around healthcare empowerment. In her role as CPS’ Scholar-in-Residence, Bell will also offer workshops and engage faculty, staff, students, and community partners in conversations around community engagement scholarship.