He received his Ph.D. from Howard University in Sociology in 2006 with specializations in medical and urban sociology. His research interests include HIV prevention, urban studies, education, men’s health, and race, class, and gender inequality. He was named one of ten LGBTQ New Yorkers making a difference in their community by City & State Magazine. Dr. Applewhite has published research in public health journals about health issues for college students including stress, and HIV prevention for Black college students. His current research focuses on HIV prevention among Black gay male romantic couples.