Maya Martin

Dr. Maya D. Martin is a licensed social worker in the state of Alabama with over 15 years of professional experience in behavioral health, geriatric mental health, and social work education. She has taught courses in social work, including areas such as social welfare policy, human behavior in the social environment, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. In her role at Walden University, Dr. Martin serves as an adjunct instructor, facilitating student learning in a fully online environment while supporting student engagement, critical thinking, and professional development.
Dr. Martin earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), a Master of Social Work from Alabama A&M University, and a Doctorate in Social Work from Tulane University. Her primary research interests center on mental health and aging, particularly among marginalized and underserved populations. She also has subject matter expertise in trauma-informed practice, social welfare systems, and health disparities.
Her professional background includes experience in both clinical and academic settings, as well as leadership in federally funded initiatives aimed at improving geriatric care and workforce development. She currently serves as the Outreach Coordinator for the Alabama A&M University Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP), where she works to expand age- and dementia-friendly care across healthcare and community settings. Dr. Martin is also a former Assistant Professor at Tuskegee University.
Dr. Martin has presented at numerous regional and national conferences on topics such as the impact of COVID-19 on older adults and the history of macro social work in the American South. Her accomplishments include being named a Gerontological Society of America (GSA) Early Career Diversity Fellow and an Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Health Disparities Research Education Program (HDREP) Scholar. Through her teaching, research, and service, she remains committed to advancing health equity, promoting community wellness, and preparing the next generation of social work professionals.

Education

BA, University of Alabama at Birmingham

MSW, Alabama A&M University

DSW, Tulane University

Publications

Martin, M., Saltzman, L., Broussard, C., Hansel, T. (2021). Mental health and well-being for aging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aging & mental health

Presentations

Martin, M. (2026). Implementing the 4Ms in Community Based Care: AAMU and Aletheia House. AGS

Martin, M. (2025). Using the 4Ms in Intergenerational Settings: Connecting Older Adults and Children for Healthier Communities. CAPNA (Community Action Partnership of North Alabama)

Martin, M. (2023). COVID-19 and Senior Adults. Tuskegee University

Holston, F., Jones, A., Martin, M., Wilson, M. (2022). The Image of a Macro-Social Worker: Alabama Racial Equality history through a Women's Club during the times of the Jim Crow South.