DeJuan Patterson

DeJuan Patterson is a social impact strategist, community research advisor, and equity advocate committed to bridging the gap between academic research and real-world impact. As the founder of The Bridge Advisory Group, he designs community-driven engagement strategies that help institutions, policymakers, and organizations translate research into action for social good. His expertise spans public health equity, workforce development, youth leadership, and participatory research, ensuring research is ethical, culturally responsive, and beneficial to Communities. As a Community Advisor for the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy’s Community Think Tank on Research, DeJuan collaborates with researchers and stakeholders to develop trust-based, participatory research frameworks that prioritize lived experience, community ownership, and equity. He has advised universities, philanthropic organizations, and healthcare institutions on best practices for community-centered research and social impact strategy. His work centers on ensuring that research is not extractive but instead fosters reciprocity, power-sharing, and tangible benefits for the communities being studied. As a thought leader on ethical research and knowledge equity, DeJuan has presented at national conferences, led workshops on inclusive research practices, and developed tools to help institutions shift from transactional community engagement to transformational partnerships.