Dr. Charise Breeden-Balaam, Ed.D., MSW, LSW

Speaker Information

Dr. Charise Breeden-Balaam, Ed.D., LSW is a licensed social worker, scholar, and higher education leader whose career bridges social work practice, research, and academic administration. She currently serves as a Professor of Practice at Marywood University, where she prepares the next generation of social workers. In addition, she maintains a private practice supporting clients as they navigate life’s challenges, with a focus on trauma, mental wellness, and family support. She is also the Founder and CEO of Balaam and Associates, a consultancy dedicated to guiding doctoral students through dissertation completion with her signature PhinisheD/FinishEdD coaching model.

Her academic work is anchored by her dissertation, “Assessing Student Food Insecurity Levels at an Urban Community College,” which examined how hunger impacts academic performance, retention, and graduation rates. This research continues to inform her advocacy and service through organizations such as the National Association of Black Social Workers, the NASPA Center for Women Board Advisory Board, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, NAUW, and the New Jersey Food Democracy Collaborative’s Policy Workgroup.

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Breeden-Balaam has presented nationally at the Black Doctoral Network, Rutgers University, and the National Council on Black American Affairs on issues ranging from food insecurity and adjunct faculty advocacy to mental health and student success. Guided by her belief that education is a cornerstone of social change, she carries forward the legacy of Dorothy Height’s words: “I want to be remembered as one who tried.”