Janella Melius

Dr. Janella Melius is a licensed clinical social worker with an extensive career spanning over fifteen years, primarily within the foster care system. She holds a faculty position at Walden University and is an integral part of the Barbara Solomon School of Social Work & Human Services. Dr. Melius is deeply dedicated to advancing our understanding of the impact of social determinants, with a specific focus on the socio-cultural environment and its connection to obesity outcomes among individuals of Latino and African ancestry. Her pioneering research initiatives have the potential to make significant contributions to the development of culturally tailored interventions aimed at reducing health risk behaviors associated with obesity within these populations. Recognized for her expertise and unwavering commitment to her field, Dr. Melius is a sought-after speaker, frequently sharing her profound insights at national and international conferences. In addition to her academic and research contributions, Dr. Melius holds the distinguished title of Fellow in the NIH-Obesity Health Disparity (OHD) PRIDE program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She is also an affiliate of the American Collaborative Obesity Research Network (AACORN). Furthermore, Dr. Melius is honored as a Scholar at the Dr. Alfred M. Haynes Institute for Social Equity at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Her impressive credentials and steadfast dedication to improving the well-being of underserved communities exemplify her as a true leader in her field.

Education

PhD, Norfolk State University, VA

MSW, University of Akron, Ohio

Bachelor of Social Work, University of the Virgin Islands