Valerie Borum joined Toronto Metropolitan University as a Professor and the Director of the School of Social Work in January 2020. She has extensive experience as a social work practitioner, directing programs and supervising social work and human service professionals. Dr. Borum's scholarship focuses on the role of ethno-culture as a protective and promotive factor in health, mental health, and disabilities, especially for populations of African descent. Her research examines the intersections of disabilities, deafness, and ethno-culture in relation to Black, Afro-Latinx, and hard-of-hearing families. Additionally, she explores the impact of 'whiteness' on understanding anti-Black racism, employing Womanist and Afrocentric approaches to her research and pedagogy. Dr. Borum completed post-doctoral studies at the University of Rochester and holds a Ph.D. from Howard University. Over the years, she has received numerous awards and grants for her work, including funding for projects aimed at addressing anti-Black racism and developing educational resources. Dr. Borum advocates for families of color and actively seeks external funding for her research and scholarship.
Toronto Metropolitan University, School of Social Work • Toronto, Canada
Leads the School of Social Work, directing programs, and overseeing academic and research initiatives.
Toronto Metropolitan University • Toronto, Canada
Responsible for the administration and development of the Bachelor of Social Work program.
Toronto Metropolitan University • Toronto, Canada
Oversees the Master of Social Work program, ensuring compliance with academic standards.