Dr. Lisa Wexler

Biography

Lisa M. Wexler is a Professor at the University of Michigan's School of Social Work and a Research Professor at the Research Center Group Dynamics within the Institute of Social Research. She completed her doctoral degree in Social Work at the University of Minnesota, where she conducted a critical ethnographic dissertation while actively working as a tribal community organizer focused on suicide prevention. Professor Wexler's research emphasizes participatory methods to engage Indigenous communities, service providers, and family members to reduce youth suicide risk and promote wellness. Her federally-funded research programs deploy a variety of methods, including intergenerational digital storytelling and social network analysis, to address behavioral health inequities among Indigenous populations. Key research interests include American Indian/Alaska Native suicide prevention, Indigenous youth resilience, and culturally-specific behavioral health services. Her work has resulted in several significant projects aimed at amplifying community strengths and creating strategic community-driven interventions. As a recognized leader in her field, she has been involved in multiple advisory roles and received numerous accolades for her contributions to suicide prevention research.

Research Interests

Courses