Marian Tripplett

Marian Tripplett
Faculty Specialist II
Location:
4405 Health and Human Services Building, Mail Stop 5354
Mailing address:
School of Social Work
Western Michigan University
1903 W Michigan Ave
Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5354 USA
Education:
  • M.S.W. Interpersonal Practice, Western Michigan University
  • M.Ed. Organizational Analysis, Western Michigan University
  • B.A. Applied Liberal Studies, Western Michigan University
Bio:

Marian Tripplett joined the School of Social Work in 2011 and is a tenured faculty member and licensed clinical social worker. Tripplett’s leadership at WMU includes Program Director, BSW & MSW at the former Benton Harbor regional site (2011-2024) and Field Education Director (2020-2024). Tripplett is currently completing a Ph.D. in Organizational Chage and Leadership at WMU (anticipated 2027). 

An award winning educator recognized for innovation in teaching and community engagement, Tripplett is a practitioner-scholar whose work is grounded in the belief that individuals, organizations, and communities flourish when leadership, culture, and systems are intentionally aligned. Her teaching and scholarship integrate applied research, community-engaged methods, and practice-based evidence to advance equity, well-being, and sustainable social impact. 

Professional Leadership Development: 

  • Dream Fellow (2021-22) 
  • Academic Leadership Academy (2024-25) 

Current Research Interests: 

  • Organizational Change & Leadership 
  • Flourishing & Well-being 
  • Collective Action