Dakota Roundtree Swain
About Dakota Roundtree Swain
Dakota Roundtree Swain is an Associate Lecturer at the University of Massachusetts Boston, specializing in foster care reform and advocacy. With a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Swain has held various roles in academia and consulting, contributing to programs that support youth aging out of foster care.
Work at UMass Boston
Dakota Roundtree Swain has served as an Associate Lecturer at the University of Massachusetts Boston since 2021. In this role, Dakota focuses on integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into program development and institutional culture. This commitment shapes the learning environment and influences curriculum design, ensuring that all students have equitable access to educational opportunities.
Current Roles at ICF
Dakota Roundtree Swain holds multiple positions at ICF, including Co-Lead for the Kinship Peer Group and Child Welfare Consultant. Since 2021, Dakota has also contributed as an Editor and Collaborator for the Children's Bureau Express (CBX) articles. Dakota's work at ICF emphasizes a holistic approach to child welfare, focusing on the experiences of youth in foster care and advocating for systemic reforms.
Education and Expertise
Dakota Roundtree Swain earned a Master of Arts in Social Policy from The Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University, completing the program in 2020. Dakota is also pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Policy, focusing on Children, Youth, and Families, with the degree currently at the ABD (All But Dissertation) stage. Additionally, Dakota holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and English from Emmanuel College.
Background in Research and Advocacy
Dakota Roundtree Swain has a background in research and advocacy, particularly in the areas of foster care reform and youth experiences in the system. Dakota has worked as a Research Assistant at Brandeis University and Northeastern University, focusing on racial disproportionality in foster care. Dakota's involvement in creating the Transition Aged Youth program at Boston CASA demonstrates a commitment to supporting youth transitioning out of foster care.
Political and Community Engagement
Dakota Roundtree Swain has experience in political engagement and community outreach. Dakota served as Chief Political Advisor and Campaign Manager for The Committee to Elect Nick Matthew for Congress in 2020. Dakota has also been involved in running community outreach strategies and political campaigns, showcasing leadership in diverse areas and a commitment to social justice.