Dr. Lana Wells

Associate Professor

Biography

Lana Wells is an internationally recognized expert in gender-based violence prevention, known for her ability to work across disciplines and translate knowledge into action. As an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Social Work and the Brenda Strafford Chair in the Prevention of Domestic Violence at the University of Calgary, she founded and leads the primary prevention research hub called Shift: Project End Domestic Violence. Dr. Wells has authored and supported numerous research reports used by governments and community-based organizations in Canada. Her accolades include the Order of the University of Calgary and the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal for her significant contributions to family violence prevention. With over $22 million raised for various violence prevention efforts, her research interests focus on innovations in systems change, gender equity, and evidence-based prevention strategies. Dr. Wells collaborates with a diverse group of sector leaders, contributing to significant policy changes and development in the field of domestic violence prevention. She supervises graduate students and plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of scholars in social work and public policy.

Research Interests

Experience

Brenda Strafford Chair, Prevention of Domestic Violence
— Present

University of Calgary • Calgary, AB, Canada

Founder/Director
— Present

Shift: Primary Prevention Research Hub • Calgary, AB, Canada

Research Fellow
— Present

School of Public Policy • Calgary, AB, Canada

Instructor
— Present

School of Public Policy • Calgary, AB, Canada

Awards

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Killam Annual Professor Award
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Order of the University of Calgary
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Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal
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John Hutton Memorial Award Social Action/Policy
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Alberta Inspiration Award Leadership Family Violence
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UCalgary Teaching Award