Teri A. Garstka

Teri A. Garstka, Ph.D., leads the Social Dynamics Innovation Lab at the KU Lifespan Institute to better understand complex social systems and operationalize positive change within and between ecosystems. Dr. Garstka’s interdisciplinary interests converge where research, data, and technology meet social good efforts. To that end, she led the development and growth of public sector social impact technology to measure what matters for kids and families (DAISEY) and to build community networks that improve health and well-being (IRIS). She also co-created the Tech-Enabled Community Resilience Summit to better position community ecosystems for social and health equity outcomes. Dr. Garstka also designed the Early Childhood Integrated Data system and Data Trust for the state of Kansas. She received her doctorate degree in social psychology at the University of Kansas.