By Jaelon Jackson
School of Social Work
PhD student, Katherine Kitchens
In November, a PhD candidate in the School of Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington successfully defended her dissertation.
Katherine Kitchens defended her dissertation titled “Enhancing Cognitive Assessment for Forcibly Displaced Populations: An Integrated Theoretical, Methodological, and Empirical Investigation.”
Kitchens’ academic journey reflects her dedication to addressing disparities in cognitive assessments for forcibly displaced populations. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political philosophy from the University of Dallas and her master’s degree in social work from UTA.
Kitchens began her PhD studies at UTA to bridge gaps in social work practice and research for underserved communities. Her dissertation focused on uncovering cultural biases in standardized cognitive assessment tools.
Through cognitive interviews with members of the Karen ethnic community in Dallas, she identified these tests often fail to capture cognitive functioning in individuals who think more concretely rather than abstractly.
Her research highlights the urgent need for culturally responsive assessment tools to serve resettled refugees, particularly older adults who experience subjective cognitive impairment at twice the rate of the general older adult population.
“My research equips social workers with tools to address the unique needs of these communities,” Kitchens said. “I hope it leads to more equitable healthcare outcomes.”
Kitchens expressed gratitude to the UTA School of Social Work faculty for their mentorship and support. “Their guidance was instrumental in shaping my research and academic journey,” she said. “I’ll truly miss being part of this exceptional community.”
Her dissertation committee was chaired by Dr. Diane Mitschke, with members Dr. Anne Nordberg, Dr. Noelle Fields, Dr. Catherine LaBrenz, and Dr. Mitra Naseh.
“I’m so proud of Katherine and the work that she has done in the resettled refugee community in East Dallas,” Dr. Mitschke said.
Dr. Mitschke has researched and worked supporting the local Karen refugee community since 2006.
“Her research will have a significant positive impact on the lives of refugees from Burma, and I have no doubt that she will continue to build on this work as she joins the faculty at UT Southwestern. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as Katherine’s mentor during her time at UTA.”
Kitchens recently began a faculty appointment at the O’Donnell School of Public Health at UT Southwestern Medical Center, where she will continue her research on forcibly displaced populations.
“This position allows me to combine my clinical experience with academic research to drive meaningful change,” Kitchens said. “It’s an incredible opportunity to amplify my impact.”
Kitchens’ successful defense marks a significant milestone in her career, as she remains committed to advancing social work practice and improving outcomes for underserved communities.
