Kelly W. Gagnon, PhD

I am an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral medicine in the Center for Community Health and Intervention Research at the Medical College of Wisconsin. My research focuses on improving access and effectiveness of evidence-based interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders, adverse mental health, and infectious diseases for underserved, high risk populations such as sexual and gender minorities and people living in under-resourced areas. Utilizing implementation science and diverse methods, my work: (1) identifies determinants to the access and provision of affirming, competent, physical and mental health care and (2) investigates the integration of evidence-based practices into diverse clinical settings. To date, I have received federally funded training in clinical and translational science, outcomes and effectiveness research, and implementation science methods. Additionally, I have conducted and taken part in qualitative investigations to understand the perspective of populations to inform interventions. Working with a variety of target populations, my research has provided critical insight to ensure interventions reflect the unique needs and desires of the communities I aim to serve.

2022: Best Doctoral Dissertation Award, Delta Omega National Public Health Honor Society, Omicron Chapter
2017: Eta Sigma Gamma Health Education Honorary, Southern Connecticut State University
2010-2013: Dean's List, Hobart and William Smith Colleges
2009: Helen Heath Scholar, Hobart and William Smith Colleges

• Population health of sexual and gender minorities and people who use substances
• Implementation of evidence-based interventions and screenings for risk of contracting HIV and sexually transmitted infections
• Evaluation of services for underserved and uninsured patients