Emily Schwass named new Associate Director of Sexual Misconduct Support Services at the Women and Gender Resource Center

DSA News
September 17, 2024

On September 5, 2024, Emily Schwass (she/her/hers) started in her role as associate director of sexual misconduct support services (SMSS) at the Women and Gender Resource Center (WGRC).

Emily is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor and brings with her over a decade of experience in the social work field. Originally from the Chicago suburbs, Emily has been living in Texas since 2017. She holds a master's degree in social work from the University of St. Francis in Illinois and a bachelor's degree in sociology with a concentration in Social Welfare from Augustana College in Illinois.

Emily’s extensive professional background includes work in non-profit community mental health centers, partial hospitalization programs, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and higher education. Most recently, she served as a therapist at UH Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), providing compassionate clinical care to our university community. Emily said, “I’m deeply honored and excited to step into the role of associate director and lead the SMSS team. Joining this exceptional WGRC team is a privilege, and I look forward to contributing to our shared goals and vision. My commitment to trauma-informed care will be central in guiding our approach, ensuring we create a supportive and understanding environment for all. I’m dedicated to fostering student success and am enthusiastic about expanding and growing the work of SMSS. I am thankful for this incredible opportunity.”

Laura Zavala-Membreno, WGRC Director, stated, “Emily is a passionate and experienced advocate for trauma-informed care, and she understands the significant impact that trauma can have on mental health, personal well-being, and academic success. I look forward to seeing her lead our SMSS team with this deep commitment to student success. And I know that leading the WGRC alongside her will bring our department’s mission and strategic goals to new heights. I could not be more excited for her to join our team.”

In her free time, Emily enjoys taking care of her plants, reading, re-watching her favorite TV shows, spending time outdoors, and being with her family, friends, and her dog, Marlee.

Please join us in welcoming Emily to her new role!

Written by, Laura Zavala-Membreno, Director of Women and Gender Resource Center – Student Affairs