Michelle Young

Michelle Young is a Lecturer in the Department of Social Work at McDaniel College, where she teaches courses such as SWK 4422: Social Work Practice with Families and Small Groups, IDS 2028: The Nature of Health and Illness, and FYS 1162: Reality TV: What's Behind It? She is actively engaged in mentoring students both academically and extracurricularly, serving as Faculty Advisor for Phi Alpha, the Social Work Honor Society, and as Faculty Mentor for the Green Terror Women's Basketball team.

Her educational journey began at Western Maryland College, where she earned her B.A./B.S.W., followed by a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Maternal & Child Health from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. As a first-generation college student, her liberal arts background profoundly shaped her empathetic and interdisciplinary approach to social work.

Michelle's research and practice interests center on attachment in families, perinatal and postpartum mental health, cultural and media influences on behavior, resiliency in high-stress professions like law enforcement, and overall wellness. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes high academic standards and deep student engagement, as reflected in student testimonials praising her mentorship on departmental honors projects and personal development.

She also contributes to the community through her role as a Clinical Trainer for Hoffman Homes for Youth in Gettysburg, PA, bridging academic training with real-world clinical application. Though no formal scientific awards or publications are listed, her impact is evident in student success and ongoing mentorship.

• Faculty Advisor, Phi Alpha Honor Society
• Mentor, Green Terror Women's Basketball
• Clinical Trainer, Hoffman Homes for Youth