Cheryl H. Sclar is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Sociology dedicated to breaking down barriers to student success. Teaching through a social justice lens, she fosters inclusive learning environments where students are encouraged to critically engage with psychology, identity, and the social world. Cheryl collaborates across campus to support holistic student development, emphasizing access, belonging, and meaningful pathways to student success.
California College of the Arts — Bachelor of Fine Arts, with distinction
Loyola Marymount University (Los Angeles) — Master’s in Clinical Art Therapy; Master’s in Marital and Family Therapy
Walden University — Doctorate in Social Psychology, Class of 2027
Cheryl's research centers on social change, solidarity, inclusion, and human rights. Her work examines identity-based distress, collective and inherited trauma, and how intersecting identities shape experiences of belonging and invalidation within institutional and community settings. A key focus of her scholarship is Black–Jewish unity and cross-community solidarity, with an emphasis on dialogue, coalition-building, and collective liberation. Her doctoral dissertation, Identity-Based Distress and Meaning-Making: A Phenomenological Study of Jewish Women’s Experiences of Antisemitism and Inherited Trauma During Collective Crisis, explores how Jewish women navigate antisemitism, meaning-making, and professional roles during periods of collective crisis.
