External Associate – Climate Change Institute, University of Maine
Assistant Professor – University of Tennessee
Address: College of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Henson Hall, 1618 Cumberland Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996
Biographical Snapshot: Dr. Jennifer First is an Assistant Professor in the College of Social Work at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Her scholarship is committed to improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals and communities experiencing disaster and environmental challenges. Jennifer has led and collaborated in numerous projects throughout the United States aimed at developing, implementing, and evaluating mental health resources in post-disaster communities. She grounds much of her work in resilience theory and integrating the importance of addressing social vulnerabilities and issues of equity and power.
Research Area: Jennifer’s research examines the mental health impacts of disasters and climate change and capacities to support adaptation and resilience for individuals and communities.
