Jocelyn Brown

Education

Ph.D. in Gerontology from the University of Maryland Baltimore

M.A. in Applied Sociology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County

M.S. in Applied Psychology from the University of Baltimore

B.A. in Psychology from Shepherd University

Biography

Dr. Jocelyn Brown is an Assistant Professor of African American Studies at Ohio University. She brings a focused academic and personal interest in health disparities and structural inequalities that affect Black and African American communities, particularly in Appalachia. Originally from West Virginia, her work is grounded in the context of her own experiences within this region.

In her teaching roles, Dr. Brown leads courses such as "Introduction to African American Studies" and "Legal Policy and Disparities in the American Health Care System," drawing on her research into racial disparities and the systemic effects of structural racism. These courses aim to enhance understanding and foster critical thinking among students.

Dr. Brown has contributed significantly to her field through publications such as "Using Voice and Touchscreen Controlled Smart Speakers to Protect Vulnerable Clients in Long Term Care Facilities," and her solo work, "Addressing Racial Capitalism’s Impact on Black Essential Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Policy Recommendations." These publications underscore her research focus on technology's role in health equity and the socio-economic challenges faced by Black communities during health crises.

Dr. Brown is deeply committed to fostering a community-oriented classroom environment that encourages student engagement and collective learning. Her approach emphasizes dismantling hierarchical structures from the bottom up and promoting community engagement both within and outside the classroom. This commitment to creating an inclusive educational setting aligns with her broader goal of empowering students to challenge and change the disparities prevalent in their communities.

At Ohio University, Dr. Brown continues to advance her research and community engagement efforts, dedicated to enhancing health outcomes and equity in Appalachian and broader communities.

Research Interests

Dr. Brown’s research interests surround racial and ethnic disparities across the life course of Black and African Americans. This includes examining the ways in which structural racism and economic systems work together to produce health inequality, particularly for Black Appalachian Americans.

Moreover, she is interested in evidence-based practices to bring reparations to fruition to address inequality, Black digital activism, and using qualitative methods to amplify Black voices in academic literature. 

Courses Taught

• AAS 4693 Legal Policy and Disparities in the American Health Care System
• Legal Policy and Disparities in the American Health Care System