Faculty Feature: Domonique Henderson

I am a California native, and I graduated from Howard University with a B.S. in Psychology. Following undergrad, I graduated from Baylor University with an MSW and completed clinical training at the Houston Medical Center and The Menninger Clinic (a psychiatric inpatient hospital). With the influence of amazing mentors, I was inspired to pursue a doctoral degree in Social Welfare and graduated from UCLA with a Ph.D.

Starting this fall, I am excited that I will be teaching Human Behavior and Social Environments I! It is my hope that students in my class (1.) understand that the classroom is a co-learning space where they also offer expertise in the topics we study, and (2.) that social environments play a significant role in how people perceive their world experiences. My commitment to joining NMSU's School of Social Work was inspired by the supportive faculty and staff, in addition to the highly passionate students I met while visiting NMSU. I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty and students on research and community projects.

Woman in a sleeveless white dress standing on a campus walkway lined with tall trees, smiling at the camera. 

 

My research examines gendered racism (sexism and racism occurring at the same time) and its mental health implications for Black women and girls (including African American, Afro-Latinas, Caribbean, and African). A recent research project I am excited about examined how adolescent Black girls experience gendered racism on social media. I also completed a study that focused on how Black girls feel invisible in high school settings, and if you are interested in reading it, please click here.

Outside of teaching and research interests, I love hiking and random road trips, and Sequoia National Park is my favorite so far! I also lived in Spain and worked for the Ministry of Education teaching K-6 students.

Some advice that served me throughout my time as a student: (1.) It is important to know the difference between critical feedback and criticism. Critical feedback is meant to sharpen your toolset as a social worker and change agent. While criticism can stunt your growth and can create harm. (2.) When I submitted assignments, it was important to me that I stopped expecting an A and focused more on how I understood and applied the concepts taught to me. Once I stopped associating a grade with my self-worth, I naturally excelled in class. (3.) Leaning on my cohort throughout my graduate education filled my cup!