Elise Hernandez, MSW, PhD

Elise Hernandez (pronouns: Elise) is an interdisciplinary applied researcher and aspiring death doula. Currently, Elise is the Director of Research and Impact with SAGE (Services and Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders), managing research partnerships and supporting the organization’s evaluation work. Elise has been working in the non-profit space for over five years including roles with Meals on Wheels America, Howard Brown Health, and UnidosUS. Elise is passionate about understanding, bolstering, and demonstrating the impact of care and social support across the lifespan among multiply marginalized communities using participatory, mixed methods approaches. Elise earned an MSW and Ph.D. in Social Work and Psychology from the University of Michigan. Elise lives in Chicago where they volunteer with One Roof Chicago, an intergenerational LGBTQ+ housing initiative.