Nicole A. Telfer, PhD, CAS
BHC 40 Under 40 | Class of 2026 | At the Bench
Professor & Research Lab Director | Notre Dame of Maryland University | Baltimore, MD
Dr. Nicole A. Telfer is an applied developmental psychologist whose work centers Black youth, families, and communities. Her research is grounded in African-centered psychology, intersectionality, and disability critical race theory, exploring how socio-cultural factors shape development, health, and wellbeing.
At Notre Dame of Maryland University, she teaches psychology and directs the Racial Equity and Liberation (REAL) Lab, where her work focuses on the lived experiences of Black children and their families.
The Journey
Dr. Telfer’s path was shaped by a deep commitment to supporting minoritized children and families.
“Recognizing that health expands beyond physical wellbeing was an eye-opener for me.”
Through her work with clinicians, educators, and families, she saw firsthand how structural inequities impact development and health outcomes—particularly for vulnerable communities.
What This Recognition Means
For Dr. Telfer, this recognition affirms the importance of centering race, culture, and community as core determinants of health.
Her work challenges traditional frameworks by emphasizing that education, environment, and lived experience are not secondary factors—they are foundational to health outcomes.
What’s Next
Dr. Telfer is leading efforts to develop intervention programs that support Black families with neurodivergent youth, alongside training initiatives for law enforcement and emergency responders.
This work is grounded in real-world consequences and a commitment to ensuring that Black neurodivergent communities are supported, protected, and understood.
“We must call attention to and dismantle the systems that are harming the communities we serve.”
Dr. Telfer’s work challenges healthcare to expand its definition—centering culture, community, and lived experience as essential components of health.
Connect
Instagram: @drnicky_phd
LinkedIn: Nicole A. Telfer
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The BHC 40 Under 40 Class of 2026 honors the next generation of healthcare leaders reshaping how care is built, delivered, and experienced. Honorees will be celebrated at the Black Health Ball on June 27, 2026.