Samantha Weir is a Master Instructor in Human Development and Family Science. She received her B.S. and M.S. degrees in HDFS from Middle Tennessee State University. Prior to joining the HDFS faculty, Weir spent nine years working in the field of child sexual abuse, specifically in the area of prevention and intervention. During this time, she trained thousands of children and adults on the prevention and recognition of child abuse, and worked as a forensic interviewer assisting with the prosecution of hundreds of offenders.  

Weir works as an advocate for families and individuals throughout the lifespan. She teaches a wide range of courses, covering family relations, advocacy, and aging. Through this coursework, she prepares students to support diverse populations at all stages of life.  

Throughout her career, Weir has been recognized for her dedication to teaching and leadership. In 2023, she received the Athena Young Professional Award that recognizes an emerging leader under age 40 who exemplifies leadership attributes and serves as a role model for young women. Weir also received the Outstanding EXL Faculty Award in 2024 for teaching Aging Health and Development, an intergenerational program where students connect with older adults at  local senior facilities to plan and implement activities that add enrichment to their daily lives. 

Weir is committed to service at MTSU and in the community. She has participated in multiple Faculty Learning Communities and received grants for public service projects, incorporating Open Educational Resources, Experiential Learning programs, and Engage Week in effort to enrich curriculum and students’ experiences. She is a founding member of MTSU’s Positive Aging Consortium, a board member for the League of Women Voters of Murfreesboro/Rutherford County, and an active member of the Rutherford County Coalition Against Child Abuse.   

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