Bahia Overton, Ph.D.

Dr. Bahia Overton holds a Bachelors' degree in Psychology and a Masters' degree in Social Work and a Ph.D. in Social Work Research, focusing on the experiences of African American female adolescents in foster care.

Dr. Overton currently serves as the Executive Director of the Black Parent Initiative. The goal of this community-based non-profit organization is to improve the lives of Portland's African, African American and African American multi-ethnic children by focusing on optimal health and mental health, cultural identity development, and parent education to ensure parents and caregivers have the resources to help their children thrive.

In her previous role as the Director of Equity and Partnerships at the Chalkboard Project, she worked with teacher-leaders, district staff and superintendents across Oregon to center equity in educational and instructional leadership practices. Bahia is Executive Consultant for Joy DeGruy Publications, assisting Dr. DeGruy in researching historical trauma and co-developing new models and methods for culturally responsive service delivery. Dr. Overton has also assisted with training and development for government agencies in creating and sustaining equitable policies and practices.

Dr. Overton is also an active member of the Bahài' Faith which espouses the oneness of the human family.