Bethany Nelson, PhD
Dr. Bethany Nelson, PhD, is the Executive Director of the American Foundation for Addiction Research (AFAR), where she leads all aspects of the organization, including program management, fundraising, finances, marketing, and board relations. As the sole staff member, she works closely with a dedicated board and volunteers to advance the foundation’s mission, focusing on evidence-informed approaches to sex and porn addiction as well as broader addiction treatment. Her work integrates rigorous research with practical nonprofit management to create meaningful impact in the community.
Bethany’s journey into sociology and addiction research is rooted in her early academic curiosity about the social factors shaping human behavior. After beginning her studies in psychology, she was drawn to sociology, emphasizing the external relationships and environments that influence individual choices. She earned a PhD in Sociology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and holds dual master’s degrees in Public Administration and Criminal Justice from Eastern Kentucky University. This interdisciplinary background informs her approach to organizational leadership, program design, and community engagement.
Beyond her professional role, Bethany is a passionate advocate for collaborative, equity-centered nonprofit work. She serves on the boards of Spark in Knoxville and the Automotive Free Clinic in Montgomery, Alabama, and is an active member of Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity and the Rotary Club. Recognized as one of Knoxville’s Influential Women in 2026, she emphasizes stewardship, compassion, and resilience in both her personal and professional life, demonstrating a commitment to fostering justice, community care, and sustainable social impact.
• PhD in Sociology
• Master's in Public Administration
• Master's in Criminal Justice
• University of Tennessee, Knoxville – PhD, Sociology
• Eastern Kentucky University – Master’s, Public Administration
• Eastern Kentucky University – Master’s, Criminal Justice
• Berea College – Bachelor’s
• Influential Women 2026
• Spark (Knoxville)
• Automotive Free Clinic (Montgomery
• Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity
• Rotary Club
• Automotive Free Clinic
• Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the hardworking board members and dedicated volunteers who support AFAR. Their commitment allows the organization to persist and succeed even in challenging times.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Bring positivity to your team and you will get it back, learn from others, make a difference every day.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Keep your workplace informed and connected, strive for excellence, be a great Mentor to others.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Leading AFAR through a substantial organizational transition—including rebranding and mission expansion after the founder stepped away—presents both significant challenges and opportunities. Additionally, as a nonprofit, limited budgets constrain attendance at conferences, affecting networking and visibility.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I prioritize careful stewardship of nonprofit funds, collaboration with my board and volunteers, staying grounded through personal practices like cooking, and showing compassion—evidenced in my commitment to adopting and caring for senior and special-needs dogs.