For more than 30 years, Noёl has worked collaboratively with others who believe that everyone deserves to live peaceful and prosperous lives. Embracing her Irish roots, Noёl aspires to be a storyteller. She is the University Presidential Professor at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work and Professor at the Dell Medical School, Department of Health Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin.

Noël teaches graduate courses in human trafficking, domestic violence, sexual assault, and restorative practices. Noël is the founding and current director of the UT Austin Institute on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (IDVSA), a collaboration of the Schools of Social Work, Nursing, Law, and the Bureau for Business. The National Science Foundation (NFS), the National Institute of Justice, the Office for Victims of Crime, the Office on Violence Against Women, and many other foundations and entities have funded her research. To inform the criminal legal system of the complexities of the dynamics of interpersonal violence, Noёl has provided expert testimony in over 100 criminal, civil, and immigration cases. She is well-published and has been recognized by her colleagues and students for her contributions.

Noël is a returned Peace Corps volunteer and a licensed social worker. She is happily married, and of all roles in life, she has learned the most about love, vulnerability, and commitment by being a momma. Noёl is an amateur gardener and enjoys yoga, making papel picado, watching documentaries, and connecting to nature. Noёl is a survivor of sexual assault.

Curriculum Vitae

Professional Interests

Violence against women and children; social and public policy; social justice; international social work education, training and practice; and adoption and child welfare issues.

Posts

Research