Edward D. Scott, Jr., PhD, LCSW is an assistant professor in the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work and affiliate faculty in the Department of African American Studies. Trained as an applied developmental scientist and clinical social worker, his interdisciplinary research focuses on youth mental health and sociopolitical development. Scott is committed to supporting youth who desire to improve their communities and conscientiously applying their learning. 

Born in southern Virginia to a military family, Dr. Scott knows the challenges of navigating transitions and making new places feel like home. He recalls having a different school every year from fifth grade until his junior year of high school. He finds community through hobbies like reading and cooking as well as active participation in his faith community and civic organizations. 

Dr. Scott is Faculty-in-Residence for the Quad. He was motivated to join the University of Houston’s FIR program because of his positive experiences serving in residential learning communities at his alma maters. Dr. Scott earned a baccalaureate from William Jewell College, master’s degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and the Rockhurst University Helzberg School of Management, and a doctorate from the University of Virginia. He earned many accolades throughout his academic and professional journey, including a distinguished dissertation award from American Psychological Association, a clinical fellowship with the Council on Social Work Education, and a fellowship with Princeton Theological Seminary’s Black Theology and Leadership Institute. 

As a FIR, he enjoys building supportive community with Quad residents by hosting programs that connect learning to daily life, speaking with students about their goals and purpose, and ultimately helping students navigate toward seeing this new place as their college home.