Maria V. Wathen, PhD

Associate Professor

Maria V. Wathen received her Joint PhD in Social Work & Sociology, Master of Social Work, and Master in Sociology degrees from the University of Michigan.  She also holds an M.A. in English from Northern Illinois University and a B.A. in Sociology from Wheaton College. Her research focuses on the emergence of grassroots NGOs and their effect on policy and service provision. In addition, she explores issues of poverty and resulting child and family outcomes, as well as public policy and its impact on both public and private programs. Maria has a range of experience in education, clinical social work practice, nonprofits, and business in both the United States and internationally. She lived in Russia for 11 years and has taught seminars in multiple countries of Eastern Europe and Eurasia.

Research Interests

• Social service NGOs/nonprofits in emerging democracies
• Poverty and policy
• Civil society
• Global comparative social policy and service
• Policy and NGO service provision

Courses Taught

Undergraduate Courses

Graduate Courses