Congratulations to assistant professor in the School of Social Work Dr. Michele Brown. She recently completed her Doctorate of Social Work through the University of Missouri (MU).
The title of her dissertation is “Exploring Volunteerism: Understanding Motivations, Satisfaction, and Longevity Among Court Appointed Special Advocate Volunteers.
It involved a study that focused on the role identity of satisfaction and motivation in relationships. Brown conducted the study using four surveys and a series of interviews.
Brown’s journey
Brown worked in child welfare for 11 years before coming to Missouri State. She started as a visiting instructor but left MSU to begin her doctorate program through MU.
After spending her first year as a research assistant through her program, she was hired for her current role at Missouri State.
“I love seeing the faces of this next generation of social work in the classroom setting,” Brown said. “Being able to help shape them and give them the tools they need to succeed is what I love most about what I do.”
Brown decided to pursue her doctorate to better understand volunteerism. She describes her experience as one that taught her a great deal about patience.
She faced obstacles like COVID, changing program timelines, medical problems and having to start her research project over.
“It was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life, but also one of the most challenging and difficult,” Brown said.
What this honor means to her
Brown’s dissertation is a great accomplishment and the people who supported her through the process are what made it possible.
While pursuing her doctorate, she had to be absent from her family and struggled to balance her work life as well. Her family’s sacrifices and her colleagues’ encouragement motivated her to keep going.
“It was an experience I couldn’t have done without the support of the people at Missouri State,” Brown said. “My bosses encouraged and supported me along the way, along with my mentor and my family.”