Marni Straine

Marni Straine
Marni Straine, MSW, ACSW Assistant Professor of Social Work

Education: 

  • D.S.W., University of Southern California, 2020
  • M.S.W., Loma Linda University, 2008
  • B.S.W., La Sierra University, 2006

Principal Research Interests

My main focus within the field of social work began in the area of child welfare. The majority of my work experience has been working as an emergency response investigator for child abuse. My training was in the assessment of, and advocacy for, families that struggled with abuse or neglect issues. Aiding in the reunification process for families is one of the most fulfilling and humbling experiences of my professional career.

In recent years, I have expaded my focus to include the area of policy and macro practice. I have been the faculty sponsor and chaperone for The National Association of Social Workers' Annual Legislative Lobby Days in Sacramento, CA every year since 2013. I also currently sit on a committee for Riverside's End Homelessness Iniitiative based out of Mayor Rusty Bailey's office. Additionally, Professor Thomas and I have partnered with La Sierra University in launching an internship for social work interns in a faith-based setting. 

Academic/Practice Areas: 

  • Administration and leadership
  • Policy advocacy
  • Macro social work
  • Supervision
  • Faith-Based community organizaing
  • Homelessness
  • Child abuse prevention
  • Human trafficking prevention
  • Health and nutrition education

Awards, Certifications, and Service:

  • Love Your Neighbor Collaborative - Steering Commitee/Founding Member, 2016-Present
  • Service Learning Council, 2016-Present
  • Title IX Coordinator Certification, 2016
  • Service Learning Faculty of the Year, 2014-2015
  • Human Trafficking Identification & Resolution Certified, 2011, 2012
  • Verbal Judo / Conflict Resolution Certified, 2008, 2011
  • Developed Intervention using Play Therapy Framework, 2007