Patrick J. Meehan

Patrick J. Meehan is a researcher and instructor at the University of Michigan's School of Social Work, with a dual PhD in Social Work and Political Science. His work spans program evaluation, political participation, and gender dynamics in electoral politics.

• Education: PhD (2019), MSW (2009), BSE (2005)

Research focuses on social work's intersection with politics, including poverty reduction, pandemic policy responses, and barriers for women in elected office. Recent publications analyze material hardship during the COVID-19 era and gender disparities in political recruitment.

Teaching includes courses like Essentials of Social Welfare Policy and Program Evaluation and Applied Research, emphasizing practical policy application and civic engagement.

Key collaborations include studies with colleagues on social workers' political activity and civic voluntarism frameworks. His work highlights systemic challenges in institutional racism and policy effectiveness.