Renee Christensen

Dr. Christensen has spent more than a decade studying the importance of psychosocial processes and how temporal and spatial factors link the built environment to physical and mental health outcomes. Her previous projects linked crowding, lack of privacy, institutional-oriented spatial organization, policies, practices and stigmatization within the community to adverse mental health outcomes and identity formation. She currently serves as Director and Mind Concept Lead where she oversees the development of all Mind related activities.

Dr. Christensen has presented her research at international conferences such as Environmental Research Design Association (EDRA) and Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture (ANFA). She was able to leverage upon her knowledge in Long-Term Care Facility design during her previous position as a Senior Research Fellow at National University of Singapore, School of Design and Environment where she worked with internationally renowned experts in the field of Environmental Gerontology.

As a lifelong learner, Dr. Christensen holds a Doctor of Philosophy and a Master’s degree in Architectural Studies (Environment & Behavior) from University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, a Master’s degree in Education (Human Services) and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Drury University, Springfield, Missouri.