Trisha A. Swed

Trisha Swed, Ph.D., is a communications scholar, nonprofit consultant, and educator specializing in leadership development and social influence. As a Visiting Assistant Professor at Temple University, she teaches courses on communication, identity, and conflict resolution, bringing over a decade of experience in research and practice to her work.

Dr. Swed’s passion for leadership development is rooted in her extensive career in the nonprofit sector, where she managed youth-focused initiatives and community programs. She has worked for numerous local and national nonprofits, supporting community engagement and inclusion. Her research explores how inclusive leadership models empower youth and adults to foster equitable, community-driven change.

Her debut book, Ecosystems of Youth Leadership Development: Pathways to Programs (Emerald Publishing, 2024), introduces an innovative framework that challenges traditional leadership paradigms. It emphasizes inclusivity, community engagement, and the power of real-world experiences. Through case studies, including Philadelphia's Tree House Books and the national teen philanthropy nonprofit Honeycomb, the book provides actionable strategies for practitioners designing transformative youth programs.

Dr. Swed holds a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change from Antioch University, where her dissertation established the foundation for her ecosystem leadership model. She is also a member of the International Leadership Association and an active advocate for social justice and youth empowerment.