Dr. Denese Shervington stands as a prominent figure at the intersection of public health and academic psychiatry. Her impactful career is marked by dedication to understanding and addressing trauma, particularly within underserved communities. Currently, she serves as the Chair of Psychiatry and Professor at Charles R. Drew University, demonstrating her commitment to both leadership and education in her field.
Her expertise is further underscored by her previous Clinical Professorships in the Psychiatry Departments at both Columbia University and Tulane University. Dr. Denese’s academic foundation is robust, beginning with her medical degree from New York University School of Medicine. She broadened her public health knowledge by earning a Masters of Public Health in Population Studies and Family Planning from Tulane University School of Public Health. Following her residency in Psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco, she achieved board certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, solidifying her professional credentials.
Recognized for her significant contributions, Dr. Denese is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA). The APA has honored her with the Award for Excellence in Service and Advocacy, and previously, the Jeanne Spurlock Minority award, highlighting her dedication to service and advocacy within psychiatry. She is also a valued member of the American College of Psychiatrists and contributes to the field through her service on the Psychiatry Resident-In-Training Commission.
Dr. Denese Shervington’s influence extends beyond academia and professional organizations. She has directly addressed critical societal issues, including testifying before the United States Congress on the profound impact of Childhood Trauma. Her commitment to community well-being is evident in her co-chairing the New Orleans City Council Taskforce on Childhood Trauma, working to develop local solutions. Furthermore, her expertise is sought internationally, as demonstrated by her membership on the Scientific Board of the Centre for Society and Mental Health at Kings College, London.
A prolific scholar, Doctor Denese has authored numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals. These publications focus on critical areas such as health disparities, the social determinants of health, and the vital importance of resilience within underserved communities. Her insights contribute significantly to the ongoing dialogue in public health and psychiatry.
Beyond her academic and advocacy work, Dr. Denese is also an author and podcast host. She penned “Healing Is the Revolution,” a comprehensive guide offering pathways to healing from various forms of trauma, including historical, intergenerational, interpersonal, and community-based trauma. Expanding on this work, she hosts the “Healing is the Revolution” podcast, creating a platform for guests to share their personal healing journeys and trauma experiences, further extending her reach and impact.
On a personal note, Dr. Denese is a proud parent to Iman and Kaleb, and a grandmother to Ayelet, Hadassah, and Yoav. This personal dimension adds another layer to her understanding of community and the importance of intergenerational well-being, enriching her perspective and approach to her professional endeavors as Doctor Denese Shervington.
