The American Association on Health and Disability is thrilled to welcome Dr. Anjali Forber-Pratt as the new Director of Research, starting in July. Dr. Forber-Pratt brings a wealth of experience and expertise from her previous roles, including her work as the Director of the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living & Rehabilitation Research.
With a background as a two-time Paralympian and medalist, Dr. Forber-Pratt has been nationally and internationally recognized for her leadership as a disability advocate and researcher. She has authored over 65 peer-reviewed journal articles and chapters, focusing on psychosocial adjustment to disability, disability identity development, and student self-determination within school systems.
Dr. Forber-Pratt’s emphasis on data collection that positions the disability experience as a primary site of knowledge production is critical in advancing disability inclusion in research. Her expertise in qualitative methods, combined with her understanding of historical inequities in our communities, make her a strong fit for the role of Director of Research at AAHD.
Bonnielin Swenor, Director of the Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, praised Dr. Forber-Pratt’s deep connections to the disability community and the impact of her work across multiple fields. She believes that Dr. Forber-Pratt’s appointment at AAHD will further emphasize the value and importance of disability inclusion in research.
AAHD Executive Director, Karl Cooper, expressed gratitude for the years of service and dedication that Dr. Charles Drum provided to the organization. Dr. Drum’s commitment to bringing disability to the forefront of the national public health conversation has been instrumental in shaping the work of the NIH All of Us Research Program. The addition of Dr. Anjali Forber-Pratt to the team marks an exciting new chapter for AAHD’s research agenda.
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities also expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Forber-Pratt’s appointment, highlighting her dedication to enhancing health equity outcomes for individuals with disabilities. With her innovative thinking and natural ability to connect with and lead people, Dr. Forber-Pratt is expected to make an outstanding contribution to AAHD’s important work.
Dr. Anjali Forber-Pratt will officially start as the Director of Research at AAHD in July 2024, where she will continue the organization’s mission of advocating for greater disability inclusion in health research, particularly with the All of Us Research Program. Her appointment signals a new chapter of growth and impact for AAHD as they strive to advance health equity for children and adults with disabilities.
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