Wayne State Social Work Alumna Kathy Fahl '93 MSW, hired as assistant dean of students at Ohio University

Kathy Fahl was named Ohio University's new assistant dean of students this past June.

In the position, Fahl will help the Division of Student Affairs with several initiatives, including the food pantry and developing emergency mini-grants for students in crisis situations. 

Fahl previously served as the University of Oklahoma's director of Gender and Equality Center for 11 years. During that job, she worked with students who experienced trauma, harassment, discrimination and marginalization. She also ran the center's 24/7 crisis intervention service for people experiencing gender-based violence.

"Those are certainly skills that are applicable to working with other communities and groups that are facing those examples of marginalization," Fahl said. "Understanding of the needs of individuals and communities and how to work in a community collaboratively is really important to building resources and support."

She is a licensed social worker and got a bachelor's degree in social work from Michigan State University. She earned a master's degree in social work with a focus in community practice and administration at Wayne State University.

When asked about her time at Wayne State and how her social work training has impacted her life and career, Kathy said: "The education I received through the MSW program at Wayne State University prepared me to engage in social justice work in the community and in higher education. The MSW is seen as an asset by my supervisors and has helped me positively impact individuals, communities, and larger social problems. Being a social worker isn't just a degree it's part of my identity and the Code of Ethics has guided me throughout my 25 years of practice. "

Congratulations Kathy from Wayne State University School of Social Work!