Maria Teresa Taveras has over 15 years of experience in the fields of education and social services. She is a seasoned leader in the area of social services, with a focus on children and adolescents. Her areas of expertise include nonprofit management & program improvement. She is an advocate for change, an experienced collaborator on building and implementing strategies for positive impact and student growth.

Maria was instrumental in streamlining the intake process for children coming into foster care. The changes that Maria implemented increased the number of children being placed within safe homes in the community. This was instrumental in reducing the number of children at the Children’s Center awaiting placement and expanded the opportunities for children to receive services in the areas of family support, case management, mental health services and medical follow up.

Maria received her Social Work degree from New York University, Silver School of Social Work. She has an Early Childhood & Education Development degree from St. Joseph’s University. She is the recipient of two Robert Maslow Awards for Excellence in Practice. As well as, two fellowships with JCCA and New York Community Trust.