Denita Hoard

My name is Denita Hoard, and I am a Kansas City native. I was a non-traditional student and completed both my undergraduate degree in Psychology/Sociology and my graduate degree in Social Work at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC). My greatest passion is working with underserved and marginalized populations. I have published research in the University of Missouri Undergraduate Research Journal, Lucerna, and I am a current member of the Psychology International Honor Society (PSI CHI) and Phi Alpha Honor Society.

Over the last ten years, I have served on various community projects, such as working with children through Children’s Missions, being a Girl Scout leader, and leading a petition effort to put up a new streetlight in my community. I also serve on the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Schools of Education, Social Work, and Psychology alumni board as Vice President (SESWAP). In addition, I serve on UMKC’s Multi-Cultural and Community Affairs Committee as Treasurer and Vice Chair of Philanthropy, and I work with Professional Career Escalators (PCE). Volunteering always remains close to my heart.

I currently work as a Behavioral Health Consultant at Kansas City Care Health Clinic as an LCSW. My job responsibilities include mental health assessments, SBIRT, diagnostic, and brief therapeutic interventions for patients in a primary care integrated model. The work is challenging yet rewarding. I have always had a passion to work with individuals struggling with behavioral health issues, and every day presents new learning opportunities. In addition, I am an MSW Field Instructor for University of Missouri-Columbia (MU), Walden University, and University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) students.

My achievements have not come easy, and are a combination of maintaining an optimistic outlook, family support and encouragement, having a work-life balance, and volunteering, which keeps me motivated. I am fortunate to have developed relationships with many people who support me and my vision.

For pleasure, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, taking nature walks, listening to live music, and eating pizza. I am fulfilled by helping others achieve their dreams and/or goals, volunteering, and enjoying the simple pleasures in life along the way.

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