Charles H. Lea III

Dr. Charles H. Lea III is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at Columbia University and a Faculty Affiliate of the Columbia Population Research Center. He uses qualitative, mixed, art, and participatory methodologies to investigate racism-related and healing-centered determinants of health among Black youth and adults involved with the criminal legal system. His program of research (1) critically examines how anti-Black racism and carcerality intersect as social determinants of health and drive health inequities; (2) explores the health-protective and promotive role of radical healing mechanisms (i.e., critical consciousness, cultural authenticity, self-knowledge, radical hope, emotional and social support, strength and resistance); and (3) collaboratively disseminates and implements multilevel healing-centered health prevention and treatment interventions in community and school settings. Through this work, Dr. Lea aims to develop knowledge and build theories that inform racially just and liberatory policies, programs, and practices that address the root causes of racial health inequities and promote positive development, health, and well-being. 

Dr. Lea’s research is informed by his practice experience with racial and ethnic minoritized youth and adults in community, educational, and correctional settings; prior research on and evaluation of reentry, school reform, and workforce and youth development interventions; and training in qualitative methodology and community-based participatory research. Dr. Lea received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles, MSW from the University of Michigan, and a bachelor's in sociology from the University of California, Berkeley.