Sangeetha Kumar, MSW, Associate Director of Student Care and Outreach
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Master of Social Work, University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa
Awards: Division of Student Life Rising Star Award, Division of Student Life Diversity and Inclusion Award, Creighton University Social Work Program’s Social Work Educational Supervisor of the Year Award, Distinguished Honorary Member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars
Community involvement: I am a social work practicum supervisor for both Creighton and UNO, also guest speaking for both of those social work programs in classes. I am also very involved in my church, Urban Abbey.
What do you do?
“I save lives. Not every day, but sometimes I do. I serve as the crisis manager for Student Counseling Services department at Creighton University and work with any student, undergraduates, graduate and professional, who are in crisis or a high level of distress. Students come in for all types of needs, including mental health help, relationships, identity issues, academics and more. I work with area hospitals, if a students needs to be hospitalized for mental health reason, as well.
Other parts of my work involve outreach and public speaking in order to educate and bring awareness about mental health needs and other issues to Creighton University and the greater Omaha area.”
Why do you love your job?
“I get to help students navigate some of the most difficult and most intense parts of their lives. My job is like the emergency room of the Student Counseling Center, so I often never know what I am walking into or going to face in my day. It brings variety to my day.
I also love helping students have a safe, supportive space where they can come to and be who they are, feel comforted and not judged. The other reason why I love my job: my coworkers! They are fantastic.”
Why are you proud to be part of Creighton University?
“The people here are amazing. I’ve made great friends, learned so much from colleagues, participated in events that I never dreamed I would have been a part of, and grown in my personal and professional journey. I am proud to work in a place where everyone strives for excellence. When people around you strive for that, you improve as well, and together we become something greater, for God and for our fellow humans.”
Interests and hobbies: I love traveling, reading, cooking, kayaking, playing with my Golden Doodle and fluffy kitty, spending time with my partner and stepsons and socializing with friends.
