Our Team
Led by Assistant Professor Dr. Kathryn Spearman at The Pennsylvania State University, the work in our research lab is all about improving the safety and health of children and the parents and caregivers who support and protect them.
Through innovative and community-engaged research, we investigate the systems that shape child and family health in the context of family violence, generate evidence to drive action, and catalyze transformative systems change.
Kathryn Spearman
PhD, MSN, RNPrincipal Investigator
kps6368@psu.edu
PhD Student (1st year)Kaila Jean-Charles
Kaila Jean-Charles is a Graduate Research Assistant in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing. Kaila earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University in 2024 and dual bachelor's degrees in Biology and Health Policy & Management from Providence College in 2022. She has worked as a RN in pediatric physical rehabilitation, pediatric long-term care, and adolescent mental health. Her research interests focus on understanding the experiences of children and families navigating chronic illness and mental health challenges to improve health outcomes, promote family well-being, and inform policy.
PhD Student (2nd year)Donya Hafezi Nia
Donya Hafezi Nia is a Graduate Research Assistant in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing at Pennsylvania State University. She completed her master's degree in Psychiatric Nursing in 2024. Before joining Penn State as a PhD student, she worked as a pediatric nurse and clinical instructor in Iran. Donya was also involved in developing a startup game application using augmented reality (AR) to simulate pregnancy experiences, with the aim of supporting mothers and promoting healthier communities. Her current research explores innovative health approaches to enhance quality of life for vulnerable populations.