Dr. Owusu-Boakyewaa
Founder & CEO, Hope Community Resource Center
​Dr. Owusu-Boakyewaa founded Hope Community Resource Center in 2018 to support African immigrants and underserved communities across the U.S. With over 20 years of experience in mental health, immigrant support, and community development, she has led HCRC to become a trusted resource hub across the DMV and beyond.
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Under her leadership, HCRC has grown into a trusted resource hub, providing access to vital services for individuals and families throughout the DMV region and beyond.
Community Service
In addition to leading HCRC, she has worked for over two decades as a Program Supervisor with Fairfax County’s Community Services Board, supporting individuals with mental health needs. She’s actively involved in civic and advocacy efforts within the African immigrant community in Northern Virginia and regularly lectures on mental health and cross-cultural topics.
Recognition
​In 2022, Dr. Owusu-Boakyewaa received the African Community Services Award for Leadership, Advocacy, and Networking. She also serves on the board of the ACSA Committee.
Advocacy & Teaching
Dr. Owusu-Boakyewaah is a Professor of Social Ministry at Missional University, where she teaches courses in immigrant and refugee social work, cultural competencies, and health and aging. She also speaks at regional and national events on mental health, equity, and cross-cultural engagement, advocating for inclusive care and stronger support systems for immigrant communities.
Education
Dr. Owusu-Boakyewaah completed her entire academic journey at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where she built a strong foundation in social work, gerontology, and allied health sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) with a focus on community and immigrant services. She then pursued advanced scholarship, completing her Doctor of Philosophy in Allied Health Professions with a specialization in Gerontology.
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In addition to her degrees, Dr. Owusu-Boakyewaah earned a Graduate Certificate in Aging Studies, further strengthening her expertise in issues related to older adults and senior care. This academic background provides her with a unique lens to address the intersections of health, aging, and immigrant social services.