Dr. Joanna Mittereder has a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown where she was a first-generation student. She holds a master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, where she also earned a Social Work in Labor and Industry certificate. She completed her EdD from The University of Pittsburgh School of Education where her dissertation research was focused on supporting adopted students in the college setting. She has a broad background of supporting people through lifestyle changes, in navigating systems, and connecting to resources in a variety of settings including, community mental health, Employee Assistance Programs, health and wellness, adoption, and higher education. As a self-proclaimed life-long learner, Dr. Mittereder is an avid reader who loves exploring bookstores. She enjoys live musical theater and taking daily walks with her rescue dogs, Maggie and Stella. She serves on the advisory board for Angel’s Place and is a member of the School of Social Work advisory board.