Heather has been on the PEAR team since its inception in 2022 and has nearly two decades of experience in the sexual and gender-based misconduct field. Heather is a licensed clinical social worker, receiving her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan School of Social Work, as well as receiving a BS in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University. Heather leads her work with empathy, compassion, and by creating space for the truth telling of experiences. Heather strives to center the identities of community members within her work, ensuring programming goals are determined by the specific experiences and expressed needs of a given community.
Previous to Heather’s current position at PEAR, she worked at the U-M Sexual Assault Prevention & Awareness Center (SAPAC) for 10 years providing tailored workshops for various U-M communities and departments, restorative healing circles, consultations, and advocacy. Previous to her work at SAPAC, she developed, promoted, and implemented the YWCA Sexual Assault Advocacy Services program in Detroit, MI.