Dr. Jama Shelton is the Assistant Professor at the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College and the Chief Strategy Officer for the True Colors Fund. Their research examines the experiences of LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness. In particular, they are interested in identifying and addressing systemic barriers rooted in hetero/cisgenderism that frequently constrain the successful transition into stable housing for LGBTQ youth and young adults. 

To learn more about their work please see the resource guide below and visit their website: https://www.jamashelton.com/

Kel Kroehle is a first-year doctoral student at SP2. Their research interests include the conceptualization and deployment of gender within social work; critical theory; posthumanism and social work research; and youth liberation movements. They are currently collaborating with their advisor, Amy Hillier, on a project exploring the educational experiences of transgender youth. Prior to joining Penn’s doctoral program, Kel spent seven years as Director of The Bryson Institute of Philadelphia’s Attic Youth Center. In this role, they worked with and on behalf of LGBTQ youth to facilitate trainings on gender and sexuality to develop cultures of respect and support for the LGBTQ community, ultimately reaching over 12,000 youth serving professionals. 

Watch other APC event videos or listen to the APC Podcast Series