Kenya L. Goodson, Ph.D.
Dr. Kenya L. Goodson is a visionary leader in environmental science, public health, and community advocacy with over 24 years of experience addressing critical environmental challenges. A native of West End Tuscaloosa, where she lives near the Black Warrior River, Dr. Goodson has dedicated her career to using scientific skills to serve the community by educating the public, influencing policy, and advancing equitable climate solutions.
Her professional journey began with nine years of experience in wastewater and stormwater quality and environmental regulation, including work as a Public Health Environmentalist for the State of Alabama, inspecting onsite sewage disposal systems in Tuscaloosa County. Her service in rural communities inspired her to pursue environmental engineering with a focus on science policy and addressing systemic concerns in environmental health. She earned a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Alabama, where her dissertation explored the impacts of chemicals of concern, such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products, in wastewater during storm events.
As an environmental consultant in Washington, D.C., Dr. Goodson contributed to a major stormwater implementation plan targeting pollution reduction in three of the city’s watersheds. She has also worked on public health and climate resilience projects, including policy research on health disparities in industrial zones and capacity-building initiatives as a Fulbright Specialist at Anton de Kom University of Suriname.
A passionate educator and mentor, Dr. Goodson has taught environmental science and other STEM courses at institutions such as the University of Montevallo, Stillman College, and Brightwood College. At Stillman, she was a science instructor in the Upward Bound/TRIO program. She has also led workshops to connect students with researchers and practitioners.
Dr. Goodson’s leadership extends to numerous environmental organizations, including board service with the Cahaba River Society, Black Warrior Riverkeeper, and Conservation Alabama. As co-leader of Citizens’ Climate Lobby-Tuscaloosa, she and her colleagues advocated for local, state, and federal climate legislation. Her work centers on climate resilience, environmental health, and inclusive public policy, strongly emphasizing empowering communities through education, outreach, grassroots organizing, and participatory research.
An advocate for diversity, citizen lobbying, and climate action, Dr. Goodson actively engages in legislative advocacy and public discourse. She continues to shape environmental policy, support community preparedness, and inspire future generations of environmental stewards.
