About

I am a social scientist, researcher and educator. I use qualitative methods to ask and answer practical questions of real world importance.  I have years of education experience at all levels lecturing and teaching in the classroom, public workshops, panels and presentations. 

Broadly, my research studies power and it's operationalization at the ground level. I conduct independent research  for poor, majority minority communities to understand their experiences with public institutions and the role of nonprofits in political engagement.  I also write on Indigenous democratic practices  at the tribal and nonprofit level. 

I am currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Kansas in the School of Public Affairs and Administration and an affiliate of the Center for Democratic Governance.   In this role I assist in two research projects. One focused on state preemption and impacts on housing security, minimum wage increase and health equity in Missouri and Kansas. The other looks at trust among Native tribes and community members near the Tar Creek superfund site in Picher, Oklahoma. 

I addition to research, I also work for the Kansas City Indian Center as their director for voter engagement and advocacy and do legal consulting and mitigation for Indigent Defense Services. Prior to my current positions, I did activist and community development work with an Indigenous led nonprofit. I've served on various committees and boards all focused on elevating the perspectives and criticisms of people traditionally excluded from public forums and decision making arenas. 

Aside from my professional work, I'm a mother, writer, music, art and nature lover. I am motived by human potential and curiosity to experiment and transcend limiting conditions. 

Sincerely, 

D'Arlyn Bell, Ph.D.