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
Media Expertise
Religion/Catholicism and sexuality
Sexual consent
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)
Noteworthy
Human Sexuality Students, Faculty and Alumni Represent Widener at Conference
Students, faculty and alumni from Widener’s Center for Human Sexuality Studies represented the university through presentations, posters and organization leadership roles at the 2025 annual conference of the Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality held in Philadelphia.
Associate Professor Justin Sitron concluded his time as President of the organization, a role he has held since 2023.
Associate Professor Mark Levand presented as part of a symposia session covering topics in sexual violence research.
Professor Brooke Wells presented a research poster and co-authored several pieces of research featured in symposia sessions.
Student Wascar Ramirez was selected as the organization’s incoming scientific co-chair and presented as part of a symposia session alongside Wells.
Student Stacey Rose presented a research poster alongside Wells.
Student Mahmoud Baydoun served as a panelist in a plenary session “From Data to Dialogue: Getting Your Research to the Masses.”
Student Lauren Prenaveau presented a research poster.
Alumnus Eli Green ’08 ’14 was a featured panelist in a plenary session “Persisting Under Pressure: Research in Tough Times.”
