Itunu Ilesanmi, MSW, MPA, PhD

Itunu O. Ilesanmi, M.S.W., M.P.A., Ph.D., is an assistant professor at the University of Northern Iowa. Her research interests include forced migration, with particular emphasis on the resettlement and reintegration of refugees, immigrants, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Ilesanmi has conducted community-based research to understand these populations' experiences and to advocate for culturally responsive, effective, and efficient approaches to healing and resilience. She focuses on strength-based interventions that support communities affected by crises, conflict, or natural disasters. Passionate about empowering displaced individuals and minority groups, she emphasizes a culturally responsive, trauma-informed approach that promotes dignity, safety, subjectivity, and well-being throughout care, resettlement, and reintegration.