Hilary Weaver

University at Buffalo School of Social Work

Hilary N. Weaver, DSW, is a professor and associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion in the University at Buffalo School of Social Work. As a social worker, educator and researcher, most of her work focuses on the importance of culture in helping processes with a particular focus on Indigenous Peoples and a secondary focus on refugees. She views both through the lens of the common experience; these populations are often displaced people who have experienced trauma and are enveloped in foreign cultural contexts. She is Lakota and has lived much of her adult life in Haudenosaunee territory in Western New York.

Weaver has presented her work regionally, nationally and internationally including multiple times at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (2005-2008, 2013-2018, 2021). Her publications include many authored, co-authored and edited books, including “Explorations in Cultural Competence: Journeys to the Four Directions” (2005). She edited the well-received book, “Social Issues in Contemporary Native America: Reflections from Turtle Island” (2014). She is at work on a book on contemporary Native American issues viewed through the dual lenses of trauma and resilience.

View Dr. Weaver’s complete biography

Episode 94: A Look at the Mental Health Needs of Indigenous People in America