Biography

Dr. MaryAnne Candley holds a BSW & MSW. She earned a Ph.D. in Human Services with an emphasis on social and community services from Capella University. Dr. Candley joined the Social Work faculty at Northwestern State University in August, 2019 as an Assistant Professor. She was promoted to MSW Program Director in May, 2024.  In addition to teaching and advising, Dr. Candley is also the Coordinator of Online Studies where her duties include supporting and enhancing the online learning environment and experience for their social work students. Dr. Candley was the Mathilde Bradford Endowed Professorship recipient for award years 2024 - 2026. Through this endowment Dr. Candley introduced a tiered mentorship initiative to increase retention through student support and engagement. 

Prior to coming to NSU Dr. Candley worked with an interdisciplinary group that focused on birth inequities. Dr. Candley also engages in practice as a medical social worker. Previous practice experience also includes working with the mentally ill, homeless, elderly populations, and with children and families.

As an online graduate herself, Dr. Candley has great interest in this learning modality, to include the pedagogy to better understand non-traditional and virtual students and the myriad ways to meet student needs. Dr. Candley is passionate about macro social work and her research passion includes social determinants of health. 

Office Hours

I am always available by email and we can schedule phone calls or WebEx meetings if you prefer. You can expect an email reply from me within 24 hours Monday – Friday. I will respond to emails within 48 hours when received outside of University business hours (emails received Friday after 12 pm – Sunday).