Nancy DeCesare

Nancy DeCesare is a Professor of Human Services at Chestnut Hill College, Philadelphia, PA, where she teaches across a wide range of social work and human services courses. She holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Social Work from New York University's Silver School of Social Work, along with advanced degrees in social work and public administration.

• Ph.D., Clinical Social Work, New York University
• M.S., Public Administration, New York University
• M.S.W., Marywood University
• B.S.W., Marywood University

Her research and practice focus on trauma, veterans' mental health, foster care, street children, and grief counseling. She integrates clinical expertise with policy and leadership, emphasizing strengths-based and culturally sensitive approaches. Her work particularly highlights the needs of marginalized youth and military families.

The publications and presentations reflect a strong trend in clinical social work, trauma intervention, and advocacy for underserved populations. Topics span veteran PTSD, military sexual trauma, foster care attachment, and cross-cultural grief. Her work consistently bridges academic research with community-based practice.

Her scientific honors include:

• National Jefferson Award for Public Service
• Excellence Award from U.S. Army: Army One Source
• Leaders and Legends Award for advocacy for women veterans
• Healthy Caregiver Community Foundation Humanitarian Award
• Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
• Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work

Nancy DeCesare has served as a grant writer, author, and board member for organizations including Marywood University, Friends of the Poor, and the Governor’s Advisory Board for People with Disabilities. She has advised students through fieldwork and capstone courses, though specific names are not listed. Her leadership as former Executive Director of Boys Hope Girls Hope of New York underscores her commitment to youth development and nonprofit management.

She is actively involved in multiple professional organizations, including the National Association of Social Workers and the Academy of Certified Social Workers, and is licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania. Her interdisciplinary team collaborations include work with the Soldiers Project PA, Pennsylvania Military and Family Behavioral Health Coalition, and various academic conferences.