Profiles

Alena Stewart, Ph.D., MSEd

Alena Stewart, PhD, MSEd, is the Assistant Director for EVMS Community-Engaged Learning at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU. With a PhD in Political Science from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, Dr. Stewart has a rich background in studying ethno-political risks, conflicts, and their management through fostering community engagement and social cohesiveness.

Dr. Stewart's professional journey includes roles as a Community-Engaged Learning Specialist and Administrative Secretary at EVMS, where she applied herself to managing administrative duties, developing data metrics, and supporting student involvement. In her current role, Dr. Stewart oversees the operational, business, and administrative aspects of community outreach. She manages student education, budgets and grants, compliance, project design, data analyses, and other activities. Dr. Stewart interfaces with community partners and stakeholders to achieve programmatic objectives, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience and contribute to addressing Hampton Roads' priority health needs.

Fluent in Russian and English, with unique working experience at an international organization, Dr. Stewart brings a global perspective to her work. In her free time, she loves drawing, watching sci-fi movies and political thrillers, and fostering neonate kittens for the Norfolk Animal Care Center.