Team

Elisa V. Borah, MSW, PhD is a research professor at The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work. Elisa conducts research around the development, testing and effective implementation of mental health treatments and social supports for adults and…

Hannah O’Brien is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work Masters program. A native of Austin, Texas, she knew she needed to spread her wings in college, traveling all the way to the east…

Dr. Chris Paine, LTC, USA (Ret.), PMP is a clinical supervisor at the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, where he oversees clinical trials focused on precision medicine for military populations. In this role, he has enhanced suicide intervention…

Molly Platz, LMSW received her Master’s of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work in 2016. Throughout her social work experience, Molly has worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault,…

Anna Mastryukova is currently pursuing a Master’s of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work. She is interning at the Travis County Health and Human Service department providing social work services out of…

In MemoriamMajor Jose “Joey” Velasquez Jr. passed away in early 2025. We remember him as a devoted father, husband, soldier, and scholar whose work continues to make a lasting impact. Read the tribute from UT Social Work. Joey was a…

Siboney Arny is the Program Coordinator for the REACH Study, where she manages operations and leads outreach to engage military spouses and community partners. Originally from Texas, Siboney has worked with several nonprofit organizations, including the American Red Cross and Mothers…

Sabrina Simmons was born in Germany and studied English and Geography at the University of Mainz. She taught at a high school in her hometown Idar-Oberstein and is passionate about supporting and volunteering for nonprofit organizations. Sabrina is the spouse…

Becca Schaefer is a marketing professional with a background in communications and multimedia production. Originally from Houston, she moved to Austin after getting her degree from Texas State University. Becca has a diverse career history, particularly in the non-profit sector, where…

Sara received her bachelors degree in Classical Civilization from the University of North Carolina and has worked as a paralegal as well as in television. For the last 12 years, Sara has been collecting data for and managing research projects,…

Haley Wallace, M.A. is a creative strategist and graphic designer who specializes in wellness promotion. With a BA in Advertising & Brand Strategy and an MA in Mass Communication from Texas Tech University, Haley combines creative direction, design, and brand…

Rachel Hernandez received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Nevada, Reno. During her time in Reno, she helped run a food pantry dedicated to supporting unhoused veterans, which sparked her passion for advocacy within this community. Following this,…