Maria Morrison

Pioneering solutions for emerging issues in social justice and rehabilitation, Dr. Maria Morrison is an esteemed Assistant Professor at Saint Louis University's School of Social Work. With a robust academic background, she earned her Ph.D. in Social Work from Washington University and her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the University of Alabama. Dr. Morrison's practice areas are deeply rooted in providing support services for individuals currently incarcerated and those who have recently been released, reflecting her commitment to fostering positive change within the criminal justice system. Dr. Morrison's research interests are centered around the intricate dynamics of trauma, incarceration, and the reentry process. Her work aims to uncover the underlying factors that impact individuals during and after their time in prison, striving to develop effective interventions that facilitate successful reintegration into society. Her dedication to this field has been recognized through several prestigious honors and awards, including the Ruth L. Kirchstein National Research Service Award and the National Research Service Award. In addition to her academic and research endeavors, Dr. Morrison is an active member of the Society for Social Work Research, where she collaborates with fellow scholars to advance the field of social work. Her involvement extends beyond academia as she serves as a social worker at the Equal Justice Initiative, an organization committed to challenging racial and economic injustice and protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable individuals in American society. Dr. Morrison's work is characterized by a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals within the criminal justice system and a relentless pursuit of innovative solutions to support their journey towards rehabilitation and reintegration. Her contributions to the field of social work are not only academic but also practical, as she continuously seeks to bridge the gap between research and real-world application. Through her teaching, research, and community engagement, Dr. Morrison inspires the next generation of social workers to approach their practice with empathy, critical thinking, and a commitment to social justice. Her efforts are instrumental in shaping policies and practices that promote healing and empowerment for individuals affected by incarceration, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and compassionate society.