Michael Berghoef

Michael Berghoef is a Professor of Social Work at Ferris State University, where he serves as Department Chair and Program Director. He teaches courses in theory, research, and statistics, and has led an Academic Service Learning course in El Salvador for the past decade, including roles as an international election observer. Berghoef has held leadership positions in the Academic Senate since 2003 and is deeply involved in initiatives like the Political Engagement Project, American Democracy Project, Academic Service Learning, Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia, Safe Zone, and Shoah Holocaust Archive.

• Education: PhD in Sociology (Western Michigan University), Master of Social Work (Western Michigan University)

His research focuses on gerontology, international social work, race relations, LGBT+ issues, historic trauma, Digital Sociology, and the intersection of technology and culture. He previously worked in mental health and substance abuse therapy.

Recent publications include explorations of trauma therapy simulations, community resistance to mining in Honduras, and the integration of genocide studies into social work education. Berghoef has been recognized as a Carnegie Political Engagement Scholar (2007-2009), Diversity Enhancement Award recipient (2012), and International Educator of the Year (2016).

Key initiatives led by Berghoef include:

• Political Engagement Project
• American Democracy Project
• Academic Service Learning
• Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia
• Safe Zone
• Shoah Holocaust Archive