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Ratonia C. Runnels, PhD has a diverse work history spanning several organizations and roles. Currently, Runnels holds the position of Associate Professor and Director of Field Education at Texas Woman's University since 2014. In 2020, Runnels also became the Grace Project Coordinator at Legacy Counseling Center. Prior to these positions, Runnels served as Social Work Faculty/Lecturer at Baylor University from 2012 to 2014, Research Associate at The University of Texas at Austin from 2012 to 2012, Assistant Instructor at The University of Texas at Austin from 2010 to 2012, and Doctoral Student/Teaching Assistant at The University of Texas at Austin from 2008 to 2010. Additionally, Runnels has work experience with the Texas Department of State Health Services, where they held various roles including Contract Manager from 2006 to 2008, Development Specialist from 2005 to 2006, and Field Operations Consultant from 2003 to 2005. Runnels has also worked as the SISTA National Training Partner for the Centers for Disease Control from 2004 to 2007, a Consultant for the Black Church Outreach Project from 2000 to 2006, and a Training Specialist at Workers Assistance Program from 2001 to 2003. Runnels also served as a Board Member for The Wright House Wellness Center from 2001 to 2003. Overall, Runnels has a wealth of experience in academia, research, program management, and training.

Ratonia C. Runnels, PhD has a diverse educational background. Ratonia C. obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology from The University of Texas at Austin from 1994 to 1998. Prior to that, from 1991 to 1994, they completed their high school education at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, specializing in music and visual arts. Ratonia C. also attended W. E. Greiner Exploratory Arts Academy from 1988 to 1990, focusing on music.

Ratonia continued their studies at The University of Texas at Austin, earning a Master's degree in Social Work (MSSW) from 1998 to 2001. Later, they pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work from 2008 to 2012 at the same university.

In addition to their degrees, Ratonia has obtained certifications throughout their career. In 2003, they became a Licensed Master Social Worker through the Texas Board of Social Worker Examiners. Most recently, in 2021, they completed the Social and Behavioral Research - Basic/Refresher certification from the CITI Program, A Division of BRANY.