Adela Beckerman-Fontana

Dr. Adela Beckerman-Fontana serves as Adjunct Professor in the Department of Human Services at Nova Southeastern University. She concurrently holds the role of Research Director at Florida Education and Research Laboratory (FERL), a consulting firm in Gainesville, Florida. Her career spans extensive research and evaluation work across correctional policies, drug courts, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, child welfare, and school programs.

Education:

• Ph.D. from State University of New York at Albany
• Master of Social Work (MSW) from State University of New York at Stony Brook

Her research focuses on intersections of social welfare systems and vulnerable populations, with particular emphasis on policy effectiveness and program innovation. She has taught at undergraduate and graduate levels nationwide in diverse settings including military bases and correctional facilities.

Prior to her adjunct role, she held full-time faculty and administrative positions at institutions including Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, University of Vermont, and Clinton Community College.