Mary Ager

Mary Ager, Ph.D., MSW is an Instructor of Social Work at Walden University with over 15 years of teaching experience across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral education. She teaches social policy, poverty, and research, with a focus on critical analysis of inequality and community practice. At Walden University, she supports student learning and mentorship that is relationally grounded. Dr. Ager’s research focuses on poverty, financial exclusion, and predatory lending, examining how social policy and market forces shape the financial lives of low-income households. Her work also highlights community-based solutions that promote financial capability. Dr. Ager's professional background includes experience in public mental health, foster care, and community-based services. She has published widely, contributed to major funded research initiatives, and received multiple awards for excellence in teaching.