Annmarie Caño

My research has focused on identifying healthy ways of relating to self and others including mindfulness, acceptance, and empathy practices. I have built on my basic research to develop a psychological treatment called Mindful Living and Relating that is aimed at improving quality of life in couples with couples' with chronic pain and relationship distress.

In addition to this work, I have written about the barriers imposed on students, faculty, and staff who have experienced marginalization and exclusion in higher education with the goal of improving equitable access and success. I have written a book, Leading Toward Liberation: How to Build Cultures of Thriving in Higher Education (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2025), which is grounded in the psychology of liberation so that higher education leaders can lead courageously to co-create systems in which everyone can learn, succeed, and thrive.

My basic research, administrative leadership experience, and lived experience as a Latina and first-generation college student contribute to my commitment to co-create systems in which all are empowered to solve society's thorniest challenges.