Dr. Karl Hamner

Email: khamner@ua.edu

Dr. Hamner has been a social science and health researcher, program development and evaluation consultant, and training specialist for federal, state, county and community-based agencies. He has extensive experience conducting research and evaluation on multi-cultural health and social issues, as well as conducting professional development workshops and trainings on a wide range of topics. Throughout his career, he has written or directed the development of numerous successful grant proposals funded by a wide variety of federal agencies – including the Department of Defense, the Department of Veteran Affairs, the National Institutes of Health, the Health Resources and Services Administration, Housing and Urban Development, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration – private and corporate foundations – including The California Endowment, The David & Lucille Packard Foundation, The Mott Foundation, and The Alcoa Foundation, and numerous state, regional and local agencies. He received his Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1993. 

Dr. Dominic Combs

Email: ddcombs@ua.edu

Dr. Combs’s teaching philosophy is rooted in culturally responsive, trauma-informed pedagogy that centers the unique needs and strengths of each student. He believes that learning happens best when students feel valued, respected, and understood, especially in diverse and often challenging environments.

Dr. Combs approaches teaching with a student-centered mindset, recognizing that each learner brings a wealth of cultural, personal, and academic experiences to the classroom. By building strong, trusting relationships with students, he aims to create a safe space where they feel empowered to take risks, express themselves, and actively engage in their learning process.

Incorporating trauma-informed practices is crucial in ensuring that all students, especially those who have experienced adversity, feel supported. Dr. Combs prioritizes emotional safety and provides consistent, predictable structures in the classroom. He is sensitive to the impact of trauma on learning and aims to create an environment where students can heal, build resilience, and thrive academically.

At the heart of Dr. Combs’s approach is a strengths-based philosophy, where he focuses on what students can do, not just what they struggle with. He works to highlight and build upon their unique talents, abilities, and potential. By recognizing and validating students’ strengths, he fosters self-esteem and a growth mindset, which encourages perseverance and the belief that all students can succeed.

Overall, Dr. Combs’svb goal is to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that honors students’ identities and experiences, promotes emotional well-being, and cultivates academic growth.