Kenneth Bedell

College of Social and Behavioral Health
Barbara Solomon School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)

Dr. Kenneth Bedell, PhD, MSW, LMSW, is a social work educator, researcher, and community leader with experience in higher education, behavioral health, and ministry. He currently serves as Lead Pastor of Sanctuary of Praise Church of God in Christ in Springfield, Missouri, where he oversees church administration, teaching, counseling, and community outreach initiatives. Dr. Bedell previously served as an Assistant Professor at Missouri State University, where he taught undergraduate and graduate social work courses in areas including research methods, social justice, social welfare policy, and evidence-informed practice.
Dr. Bedell earned his PhD in Social Work from the University of Missouri and holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Missouri State University. His research interests include adverse childhood experiences, mental health in adolescents and young adults, social work education, spirituality in social work, and multiracial issues. He has contributed to scholarly research on homelessness and firearm violence among young adults and has presented at professional conferences on topics related to resilience, disability services, and social work practice.
In addition to his academic and professional work, Dr. Bedell has remained actively involved in community outreach and service initiatives throughout the Springfield area. His work reflects a strong commitment to education, advocacy, mentorship, faith-based leadership, and improving outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.

Education

BSW, Missouri State University

MSW, Missouri State University

PhD, University of Missouri-Columbia

Public Service

New Life Evangelistic Center- Veterans Coming Home Shelter, Volunteer - Springfield

Awards / Honors

W.E.B. Du Bois Education Award, NAACP Springfield, MO, 2025

Publications

Bedell, K., , , , , Bedell, K. (2021). Understanding the Correlates of Firearm Violence Involvement Among Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness: A 7-City Study. American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Presentations

Bedell, K. (2025). Examining Associations between Mental Health Factors, Environmental Factors, and College Student Motivation . Society for Social Work and Research

Bedell, K. (2024). The Social Model, Intersectionality, and Service Delivery for Individuals with Disabilities. NASW Missouri