Emily Tillotson, Walla Walla University assistant professor of social work, was awarded the 2015 WWU Community Service award at the 133rd Annual Walla Walla Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet on Dec. 2, 2015.

Tillotson has taught in the bachelor of social work and sociology program since 2008. She holds a clinical social work license in the state of Washington, and specializes in the areas of practice with groups, couples, families, and social justice. While teaching, she has continued to research, make professional presentations, and volunteer in the areas of poverty, marriage, gender studies, privilege, and evidence-driven prison reform.

Among her varied roles on the WWU campus, Tillotson provides strategic services for the WWU Diversity Council. In addition to her work at WWU, Tillotson is president and former vice president of the Junior Club of Walla Walla, has been a group facilitator for the Children’s Home Society, and a consulting facilitator for Campfire USA annual meetings in Walla Walla.

Tillotson has served on a variety of committees including the allocations committee of the United Way of Walla Walla and on the Homelessness Awareness Week committee of the Interfaith Poverty Coalition. She also serves as an art educator and board member for the Carnegie Art Picture Lab, is on the board of Blue Mountain Heart to Heart, and has served as a representative for the Blue Mountain District of the National Association of Social Workers.

Early in her career, Tillotson was a psychiatric social worker for the Washington State Penitentiary where, within four years, she began serving as correctional unit manager. At that time, she was selected as the East Region Department of Corrections Washington State Employee of the Year.

Tillotson has a bachelor of social work degree and a master of social work degree from WWU. 

Published Jan. 14, 2016