Adia R. Louden
Program Initiated: Fall 2021
Primary Advisor: Sandra Martin, PhD
Minor: Epidemiology
Research Interests: Racial Equity, Violence Against Black Women, and Harm Reduction in Black Communities
Bio: Adia received her B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Emory University. Over the years, Adia has participated in various research projects spanning: Alzheimer’s Disease, maternal and reproductive health outcomes, and domestic violence. Prior to enrolling at Gillings, Adia worked as a Data Analyst responsible for evaluating the Domestic Violence Unit in the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services.
Adia’s current research pursuits utilizes mixed methods and both Black feminist and womanist paradigms to evaluate factors impacting the experiences of violence among diverse Black women. She seeks to utilize reflexive mixed methods, in efforts to inform new directions for research in marginalized Black communities, and to advance policies to reduce neighborhood harm and violence against Black women and improve social conditions.
Outside of school, Adia is an independent freelance writer and enjoys spending time in reflection and with her friends and family. She is a self-care advocate, a lover of books and Nipsey Hussle, and passionate about story-telling.