Mark A. Levand, PhD

Affiliated Programs

• Human Sexuality Studies (MEd)
• Human Sexuality Studies (PhD)
• Human Sexuality Studies & Social Work (MEd or PhD & MSW Dual Degree)
• Human Sexuality Studies & Public Administration (MEd & MPA Dual Degree)
• Clinical Psychology & Human Sexuality Studies (PsyD & MEd Dual Degree)
• Human Sexuality Studies & Counselor Education (Dual MEd Degree)

Education

• PhD, Human Sexuality Studies (2018)
  Widener University (PA)

• MEd, Human Sexuality Education (2014)
  Widener University (PA)

• MA, Theology & Religious Studies (2011)
  John Carroll University (OH)

• BA, Theology, Pastoral Ministry, Secondary Education (2009)
  Notre Dame College (OH)

About Me

As a social scientist and sexologist, I believe sexuality education and research are crucial components for building a society focused on justice. My education and work history has informed my career path in ways that value diversity—diversity in learning, in ways of relating to others, in human sexuality, and diversity in how we exist together across cultures.

With a PhD in human sexuality studies from Widener University, my academic journey has included the exploration of sexuality and organizational change, particularly within the context of Catholic higher education, highlighting my dedication to fostering inclusivity in a variety of environments. 

As evidenced by my research publications, I'm passionate about comprehensive sexuality education and the interpersonal skills that are required when communicating about the diversity of human sexuality.

In the classroom, my teaching philosophy centers on integrating learning theory and practice, empowering learners to actively participate in their own educational journey.  Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching at various institutions, each with its own unique blend of diverse learners. I always try to meet my students where they are and connect them with the resources they need in their education.

In my commitment to excellence to human sexuality education, I hold certifications as a Certified Sexuality Educator (CSE) and Certified Sexuality Educator Supervisor (CSES) through the American Association of Sexually Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), and as a Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) through the National Center for Health, Education Credentialing (NCHEC).

In addition to my academic pursuits, I’m passionate about nurturing future human sexuality professionals and training sexologists to navigate our diverse world. I believe in making human sexuality education accessible and relatable, striving to empower individuals to explore this vital aspect of human life with understanding and empathy. My journey in this field has been both humbling and rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to its growth and evolution.

Research Interests

In my research, I explore the rich, diverse tapestry of human sexuality, recognizing the importance of acknowledging and respecting this diversity. Whether it’s addressing the challenges faced by sexuality professionals, or examining the complex issues surrounding sex, work, and ethics, my research pursuits aim to explore critical aspects of human sexuality in our ever-evolving world.

My main research interests include sexual ethics and diversity, cross-cultural sexuality, and Catholic sexual theology.  I often research justice issues in the field of sexuality, examining issues of consent, sexual behaviors, sexual fantasy, trauma, and sexuality education

Publications

• Levand, M. A. (2023). Inclusion and sexuality in Catholic higher education: Possibilities for institutional change. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003218159

• Levand, M. A. (2022). Sexuality education as developmentally appropriate in the American Catholic higher education curriculum. Sexuality, Gender, & Policy, 5(2), 122-139. https://doi.org/10.1002/sgp2.12052

• Levand, M. A., & Ross, K. (2021). Sexuality education as a moral good: Catholic support for accurate, holistic sexuality information. Theology & Sexuality, 27(2-3), 169-187. https://doi.org/10.1080/13558358.2021.1872827

• Levand, M. A. (2020). Consent as cross-cultural communication: Navigating consent in a multicultural world. Sexuality & Culture, 24(3), 835-847. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12119-019-09667-7

Professional Affiliations & Memberships

• American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)
• Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (SSSS)
• World Association for Sexual Health (WAS)
• Campus Advocacy and Prevention Professionals Association (CAPPA)
• Gamma Eta Rho Honors Society in Human Sexuality
• Catholic Theological Society of America (CTSA)
• Society of Christian Ethics (SCE)
• College Theology Society (CTS)

Awards

• Patricia Barthalow Koch Award for Research Publication in Sexuality - Widener University (2020)
• Schiller Award - American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (2016)