Dr. Kia R. McCray is a Licensed Doctor of Social Work, researcher, entrepreneur, and collaborative leader with more than 20 years of experience across behavioral health, government, healthcare systems, and higher education. Throughout a diverse and purpose-driven career, Dr. McCray has been guided by a longstanding desire to be part of the bigger picture—working not only to address challenges as they arise, but to help build sustainable, system-level solutions that effectively eliminate root causes of problems impacting individuals and communities.
Dr. McCray holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology focusing on behavioral changes and environmental factors, a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Nonprofit and Public Management from Rutgers University , and a Doctorate in Social Work from Capella University with a focus stream management and on quantitative and qualitative clinical research methodologies. This interdisciplinary academic foundation supports a strategic, data-informed, and equity-centered approach to leadership, governance, and decision-making.
Professionally, Dr. McCray’s career reflects a broad understanding of service delivery and organizational operations. Experience spanning behavioral health, public-sector systems, healthcare environments, and academia has strengthened an ability to view challenges through both clinical and administrative lenses. This perspective allows Dr. McCray to contribute thoughtfully to work that focuses on access, quality, accountability, and long-term impact.
Dr. McCray is the Founder and Principal Consultant of TruValu Consulting, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals and institutions by encouraging growth, motivating purposeful action, and producing opportunities rooted in willpower, equity, and resilience. Through consulting and mentorship, Dr. McCray partners with leaders to move beyond short-term fixes toward meaningful, lasting solutions.
In addition to entrepreneurship, Dr. McCray is a published scholar and co-author of the Amazon Best Seller Sistah Hooded: Stories of Strength & Resilience – The Doctoral Journey, as well as a peer-reviewed article published in Advances in Neonatal Care. At the core of Dr. McCray’s leadership philosophy is a genuine passion for collaboration, innovation, and community growth that leads to measurable and enduring change.
At the core of Dr. McCray’s work is a deep commitment to community growth, systems improvement, and sustainable impact. By integrating clinical expertise, research proficiency, and executive-level thinking, Dr. McCray brings a unique ability to translate complex challenges into actionable strategies that strengthen organizations and the communities they serve. This combination of lived experience, scholarship, and solution-focused leadership positions Dr. McCray as a trusted contributor to boards and leadership bodies seeking thoughtful governance, innovation, and measurable, long-term outcomes.