Maria Beam

Background

About Maria Beam

Maria Beam is faculty and Director of Social Work at Oakland University. She holds a BA in Psychology, a MSW from Michigan State University, and a Ph.D in Educational Leadership. She is also a licensed clinical and macro social worker in the State of Michigan is a board member on the State Board of Social Work. In her current role as program director, Dr. Beam is responsible for the management, accreditation, and oversight of the Social Work Program. Dr. Beam’s research addresses food insecurity in higher education and has practice expertise in child welfare and program evaluation. Her work has been supported by grants and contracts and publications in peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. Dr. Beam teaches courses in organizational and community social work, interpersonal practice, intro to social work and program evaluation. She held professional consultation, administration, supervision, and clinical practice positions in youth services, and in higher education settings. Prior to joining Oakland University, Maria worked for the United Way where she managed outcome measurement training, agency capacity building, program evaluation and agency funding. Maria spent 4 years as the assistant director for an at-risk youth diversion program in Lansing Michigan.