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Principal Investigator

Dr. Melissa Villodas is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Social Work Department at George Mason University. Her research centers on understanding how social determinants of health impact the mental health of vulnerable young people while considering how to address these challenges through treatment and initiatives at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Dr. Villodas investigates various environments such as neighborhoods, public housing, and schools, delving into topics like suicidality, trauma exposure, and mental health symptoms and outcomes. Her research focus encompasses three key areas: (1) Neighborhood Environment and Social Determinants of Health, (2) Policy, Systemic, and Community Influences on Mental Health and Well-Being, and (3) Mental Health Interventions and Support Services. Dr. Villodas holds social work licenses in New York, Virginia, and North Carolina and possesses clinical experience working with youth in foster care and individuals across the lifespan in community healthcare and telehealth settings. She is a graduate of Nyack College (BA in English Writing), New York University (MSW), and the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (PhD).

Natalia Acevedo is a second-year graduate student in the Social Work Department at George Mason University. Natalia completed her BSW from the University of Alabama and aspires to make a positive impact in the lives of adolescents through evidence-based practices. As a member of the Social Work Integrative Research Lab (SWiRL) Program, she is eager to expand her knowledge and skills in research. She joined the ThriveLab to gain hands-on experience in research methodologies and data analysis and is particularly interested in gaining a deeper understanding of youth mental health to apply this knowledge in her future career as a social worker. Fun fact: Natalia loves to go Latin dancing on the weekends! 

Messias Penton is a second-year graduate student in the Social Work dual degree program with the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution. Messias graduated from Christopher Newport University with a BA in Political Science and a minor in Philosophy of Law, where she developed an interest in understanding how social systems, policy, and community structures impact youth and families. Messias’ academic and professional interests center on serving youth in the education and mental health sectors. She is passionate about creating third spaces for community connection, healing, and empowerment, recognizing the importance of belonging and collective support in addressing social challenges. Through SWiRL, Messias is eager to expand her knowledge of research and evidence-based practices that inform policies promoting long-term positive outcomes for marginalized youth. Outside of school, she enjoys gardening, visiting botanical gardens, and painting. 

Alicia Cruz Ervin is a second-year graduate student in the Social Work dual degree program with the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution. Alicia graduated from the University of South Carolina with a BA in Sociology and a minor in Business Administration. She currently serves in the Air National Guard and is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Alicia is excited for the opportunity to expand her knowledge and skills in community-engaged research and practice, while also contributing to the lab’s mission. When she’s not at GMU or on base, she loves to check out local coffee shops, cook, travel, and go hiking with her two dogs!

Hajar Tahri is a first-year student at George Mason University and a member of the Honors College. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and hopes to concentrate in Forensic Psychology. Hajar graduated with an Advanced Diploma from Justice High School, where she served as Vice President of her graduating class. Through the Social Work Integrative Research Lab (SWiRL), she aims to expand her understanding of research methods and evidence-based practices related to mental health. She looks forward to building her research skills and applying them to her future career in psychology. Outside of SWiRL and her academic pursuits, Hajar enjoys weightlifting, spending time with friends, and playing the violin.