Alfred Perez

Dr. Alfred G. Pérez brings passion and personal experience to his work improving outcomes for foster youth. As a former foster youth himself, Dr. Pérez has a profound understanding of the challenges faced by those aging out of the system. This firsthand knowledge fuels his research and advocacy.

Through his scholarship, Dr. Pérez has significantly advanced the understanding of transitions for foster youth. His research appears in top journals including Children and Youth Services Review and Child Welfare. He has presented his research at national and international conferences and delivered keynote addresses, including at the White House bill signing ceremony for the Foster Care Independence Act.

Dr. Pérez currently serves as Co-Principal Investigator of the Adoption Stories Study at the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University. He also teaches and supervises dissertations at the Walden University Barbara Solomon School of Social Work, preparing the next generation of social workers in the doctoral programs.

Dr. Pérez serves on the editorial board of Adoption Quarterly and as a grant reviewer for federal agencies. He has consulted with organizations like Casey Family Programs to translate research into meaningful change. His contributions have been recognized with the CWLA Champion of Children Award and a U.S. Congressional Recognition Award for invaluable service to the child welfare community.

Holding advanced degrees in social welfare, including a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago, an MSW in Social Policy & Evaluation from the University of Michigan, and a B.A. from San José State University, Dr. Pérez exemplifies a deep commitment to positive societal transformation. His scholarship, teaching, and advocacy contributions demonstrate an enduring commitment to uplifting vulnerable youth. His work continues to provide foster youth the support they need to thrive.

Courses Taught

SOCW 8112 - Social Work Scholarship

SOCW 8602A/9002A - Building Doctoral Socialization and Competency 2

SOCW 8610 - Doctoral Capstone Research

SOCW 9000 - Ph.D. Dissertation Researc

RESI 8402 - PhD Residency 2

Education

PhD, The University of Chicago

MSW, The University of Michigan

BA, San José State University