Dr. Koeppel received her Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University where she worked for the Crime Victims' Institute and the Correctional Management Institute of Texas.

During that time, she was involved in data collection in prison facilities, as well as a legal aid needs assessment for rural communities in Texas.

After graduation, Maria worked as a Research Analyst for the Kansas Department of Corrections where she played an active role in writing policy and legislative recommendations.

Prior to joining NDRI-USA, Maria worked as a full-time firefighter, a position she maintains on a part-time basis.