Dr. Wilson is a social scientist with an extensive background in research and programming focused on child and family health and well-being. Her research foci include parenting, maternal health and mental health, as well as early childhood development. Damali has a particular interest in service to vulnerable, marginalized populations, and community-informed approaches. Prior to joining the McSilver Institute, Damali worked at the Child Health Advocacy Institute at Children’s National Hospital, where she led a capacity building initiative to expand perinatal and early childhood programming, policy research, and family leadership. In addition to being a researcher, Dr. Wilson is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner of over 10 years.
Damali completed her undergraduate studies in nursing at Hampton University, holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, and received a PhD from the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing.