Research on the Black Diaspora:
Unearthing and Celebrating Black Folks
Academic Scholar Specializing in Documenting Black Experiences
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Wilburn Hayden, Jr.: Distinguished Appalachian & Canadian Scholar & More
Wilburn Hayden, PhD is more than just a respected Appalachian and Canadian scholar. He is also a social work educator and practitioner and a community organizer. Hayden has taught in around nine American and Canadian public universities. Currently, he is a Professor Emeritus and Senior Scholar at York University’s School of Social Work in Toronto, Canada.
A Leading Expert on Black Appalachians, Canadians, and the Black Diaspora
Hayden is an esteemed academic scholar whose research, publication, and scholarly documentation focus on the following:
About
Educational Background
- BA Degree from St. Andrews University
- MSW Degree from the University of North Carolina
- PhD Degree from the University of Toronto
Academic Positions
Since 1983, Hayden has served in various social work academic leadership roles, such as:
- Professor and Director at York University
- Professor and Director at California University
- Associate Dean at the University of Buffalo
- Associate Professor and Department Chair at Western Carolina University
Community Practice and Social Work Experience
Hayden has been involved in many social justice and human rights advocacy activities and political campaigns. His experience in community work includes taking on the roles like:
- Director of Human Services
- Chief Social Worker in a State Prison
- Community Organizer Working with Adult Male Ex-Offenders and Groups Developing Services for Battered Women
- PA-NASW Social Worker of the Year, 2007
NC-NASW Social Worker of the Year, 1988
Research Interests
- Racism and Privilege
- Rural Social Work
- Policy
- Curriculum Outcome Assessment
- Appalachia
- Black Appalachians
- Professional Orientation and Leadership
- Race in Canada
- Disadvantaged Communities
Notable Appalachian Studies Affiliations
“Wherever he goes, he brings a piece of Appalachia with him. His heart is in Appalachia.”
— Rev. Patricia Trudeau
As an Appalachian scholar, Hayden is proud to be a part of the Appalachian Studies Association (ASA), having served as its president from 1988 to 1989 and on various ASA committees since then. He is also a member of ASA’s Journal of Appalachian Studies (JAS), working as the Editorial Board and Editor of JAS’s special issue on black Appalachia in 2024.
Scholarly Documentation
Hayden’s Appalachian publications have appeared in many journals and books, which has opened up opportunities for him to give talks at events and workshops. His book, Appalachian Black People: Identity, Location and Racial Barriers, was published in the spring of 2015.
Contact Him for More Information
To inquire about Hayden’s academic credentials, social work, and scholarly documentation on the Appalachians and the Black Diaspora, feel free to connect with him today. He looks forward to hearing from you soon.