Meet Kelsie Sladen, our new Youth Protection Specialist within Risk Management Services
Welcome, Kelsie Sladen!
Kelsie will serve as a subject matter expert and the point of contact for policies and practices related to the protection of minors. Her responsibilities include developing, implementing, and coordinating guidelines, protocols, training, and compliance activities to ensure a secure environment for youth participating in University programs. Previously, at the CARE Office on campus, she worked as a Training and Education Specialist focusing on Sexual Violence Education and Prevention for students, faculty, and staff.
Kelsie received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology from the same institution. With about 10 years of experience in the field, she has led various youth-serving organizations across Sacramento and Yolo County and is excited to bring her expertise to UC Davis.
A huge passion of Kelsie’s is education, and she is grateful to incorporate this into her career. Before coming to Davis, she worked in several local non-profits, primarily serving and running programs for LGBTQ+ youth and youth experiencing homelessness. Drawn to the opportunity to work in higher education, Kelsie chose UC Davis and began this role to refocus on youth-centered work. She looks forward to highlighting youth protection at Davis and fostering a campus culture that prioritizes this important issue.
Originally from just south of Chicago, Kelsie has called many places home as an Air Force daughter. In 2008, she settled in Sacramento, which she now considers her home. Since starting to work in Davis two years ago, her favorite activity has been the Saturday Farmer’s Market. Although she hasn't explored much of the city yet, she is always open to recommendations!
Outside of work, Kelsie spends all her time with her partner, one-year-old and three dogs. She loves being outdoors and giving her family a variety of experiences like trips to the zoo and aquarium. However, her perfect day also includes shamelessly binge-watching Netflix, with her current obsession being the Bridgerton series.