Joe has been with STEPs as a Program Evaluator since September 2021, and currently leads projects related to Drug Overdose Prevention for Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services. Prior to his current position, Joe worked at STEPs as a graduate research assistant from 2015-2017. He has worked on a range of projects for past community partners including Heartland Family Service, Avenue Scholars, Partnership 4 Kids, Nebraska Families Collaborative, and the GOALS Center.
Biographical Information
Joe holds a B.S. in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Nebraska Omaha. In addition to experience in program evaluation and research, Joe is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with experience providing individual and group counseling, as well as crisis response through work in an emergency department. Joe has a specific interest in treating trauma and substance use disorders, which informs his current work with NE DHHS Drug Overdose Prevention.
Professional Interests
Joe is passionate about working to improve the treatment of individuals who are often stigmatized and marginalized by existing systems. Through social work’s strength-based lens, Joe is interested in projects that highlight the voices of individuals living with substance use disorders or other mental health disorders. This includes a focus on individuals who are homeless or housing insecure or have system involvement including child welfare or criminal justice.
Something Personal
Joe enjoys being outdoors whenever possible, and experiencing nature with his family and eccentric dog. Joe likes trying new things, especially finding new recipes for baking, cooking, and or good science fiction novel.
