Maria V. Wathen

Maria V. Wathen is an Associate Professor at the School of Social Work, Loyola University Chicago. She holds a Joint PhD in Social Work & Sociology from the University of Michigan, along with MSW and MA in Sociology degrees from the same institution. Additionally, she earned an M.A. in English from Northern Illinois University and a B.A. in Sociology from Wheaton College. Her research focuses on grassroots NGOs' impact on policy/service provision, poverty's societal effects, and global comparative social policy.

• Education:
• Joint PhD in Social Work & Sociology (University of Michigan)
• Master of Social Work (University of Michigan)
• Master in Sociology (University of Michigan)
• M.A. in English (Northern Illinois University)
• B.A. in Sociology (Wheaton College)

Dr. Wathen has extensive international experience, including 11 years in Russia and teaching in Eastern Europe/Eurasia. Her teaching portfolio includes courses such as Social Work with Individuals and Families I, Staff Management & Development, and Organizational Leadership. Her work bridges clinical practice, nonprofit management, and policy analysis, emphasizing global social justice issues.