Meet Dr. Carol Schultz
Research Pioneer & Transformation Catalyst
Dr. Schultz combines rigorous academic research with deep faith commitment to create evidence-based solutions for youth marginalization in western societies. Her groundbreaking work bridges the gap between scholarly research and practical Church implementation.
Dr. Carol Schultz
Bridging Academic Excellence with Faith-Based Practice
A 30-Year Journey: From Classroom to Community Transformation
Dr. Schultz's authentic path combines 30 years of hands-on youth work experience, family dedication as a mother of three daughters, and rigorous 6.5-year doctoral research developing evidence-based solutions for marginalized youth in regional Australia.
Professional Journey
Special Education Teacher & Guidance Officer
Served as a Special Education Teacher and School Guidance Officer in Private and State Schools in Queensland, developing deep expertise in working with marginalized youth.
Community Youth Organizations
Worked voluntarily for Rosies Youth Mission and Mt Isa Homeless Shelter, gaining 30 years of hands-on experience with marginalized young people.
MADYACA Inc. Co-Founder & Secretary
Co-founded Making a Difference Youth Alliance Community of Australia Inc. in Warwick, Queensland after 12 months of street outreach, working with over 100 marginalized young people (90% highly mobile Indigenous youth).
Doctoral Journey & Research
Completed 6.5-year Doctor of Professional Studies at University of Southern Queensland, developing evidence-based models through Action Research methodology with MADYACA as the professional context.
Core Values & Principles
Passionate Advocacy for Marginalized Youth
Driven by a deep personal passion for marginalized youth, developed through 30 years of direct experience and understanding that every young person deserves opportunity.
Family & Community Support
Supported by husband Christopher Schultz and daughters Bridget, Kathleen and Maeghan throughout her doctoral journey, understanding that transformation happens through community.
Life-Long Learning & Women's Empowerment
Inspiring daughters and others to be life-long learners, demonstrating through example that women can achieve anything they set their minds to.
Evidence-Based Solutions from Practice
Developing research-backed models from real-world experience with MADYACA, ensuring solutions are both academically rigorous and practically applicable.
30 Years of Authentic Youth Work: Real Stories, Real Impact
These authentic photos capture Dr. Schultz's hands-on work with marginalized youth through MADYACA programs, adventure-based activities, and community engagement over three decades.
Adventure-based learning through archery programs
Outdoor adventure programs building confidence
Sports programs fostering team building and belonging
Providing comfort and support during difficult times
Celebrating achievements and positive outcomes
Young person from our Life Skills program with a dog at the campsite where we stayed
Personal Reflection & Mission
"Before meeting Glen [my supervisor], I thought I was the only person in the world who had a passion for marginalized youth. After meeting Glen, I realized that he shared my passion, and I was no longer isolated in this regard. This study has been not only a learning journey for me, but a period of my life where I have grown personally and professionally."
"To my daughters, Bridget, Kathleen and Maeghan, I hope I have inspired you to be life-long learners and that you have seen through my example that women can do anything that they put their minds to!"
Academic Excellence & Professional Experience
Dr. Schultz's educational background and professional experience ensure rigorous academic research combined with practical expertise in youth development and community-based socialization approaches.
Education
Doctor of Professional Studies
Youth Marginalization & Socialization
University of Southern Queensland
Evaluating the mediating role of socialization in responding to youth marginalization in Regional Australia
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Special Education and Guidance Counselling (Dual Major)
University of Southern Queensland
Advanced specialization in special education practices and guidance counselling for marginalized youth populations
Bachelor of Teaching (B.Teach)
Special Education
Griffith University
Foundation in special education practices and inclusive teaching methodologies
Professional Experience
Co-Founder & Secretary
MADYACA Inc. (Making a Difference Youth Alliance Community of Australia Inc.)
Teacher & Guidance Officer
State Schools in Queensland
Professional Development Research
Six and a half years doctoral study specialization
Street Outreach Experience
12 months community engagement with marginalized youth
Research Outputs & Models
Responding to the rapid increase in marginalized youth in Regional Australia: a study evaluating the mediating role of socialization
The Human Flourishing Model: 9-Element Socialization Framework
The Education Continuum Model: Alternative Education Framework
MADYACA Inc. Critical Analysis (Project 1)
Toowoomba Flexi-School Case Study (Project 3)
Research Impact & Value
Dr. Schultz's doctoral research represents exceptional value for money - if implemented, the models and recommendations could save the Australian Government $2.1 billion over 20 years by reducing youth marginalization by just 20%. The study's Action Research methodology, using MADYACA Inc. as the professional context, bridges academic rigor with practical implementation through four integrated research projects addressing the mediating role of socialization in youth marginalization.
Vision for the Future
Dr. Schultz's vision extends far beyond individual programs to encompass a movement of transformation across western societies.
"A Vision of Flourishing Communities"
"I envision a future where every young person in western societies has access to comprehensive support systems that prevent marginalization before it begins. Where Churches lead the way in community transformation, and faithful citizens serve as powerful agents of positive change. Where rigorous research and authentic faith unite to transform communities, enabling every person to truly flourish."
Faith-Centered Transformation
Creating lasting change through authentic integration of Christian faith with evidence-based practices.
Western Society Focus
Addressing the unique challenges facing youth in western cultural contexts with culturally relevant solutions.
Community-Wide Impact
Empowering entire communities to serve as agents of positive socialization and transformation.
Sustainable Results
Building systems and capabilities that continue to benefit communities for generations to come.
The Movement Continues
Dr. Schultz's research provides the foundation, but the real transformation happens when Church leaders and faithful citizens embrace their calling to serve as agents of change in their own communities.