51社区

Eileen Marsal Koch stepped into a new role as the director of the Survivor Advocacy Program (SAP) within 51社区鈥檚 Division of Student Affairs earlier this month.

Marsal Koch, who previously served as a senior staff counselor at Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), relocated to Athens after spending the first 20 years of her career as a counselor in a community mental health center and then a private practice in the Cleveland area. During her time at CPS, she worked extensively with student survivors of sexual assault and was the CPS liaison to SAP.

Marsal Koch brings a unique vision to SAP, including the introduction of therapy dogs, a first for the program. Both her dog, Ranger, and fellow advocate Kaitlyn Urbaniak鈥檚 dog, Finney, recently passed their therapy dog certifications, and the team is in the process of integrating them into SAP鈥檚 services. Marsal Koch is also working to establish trauma-sensitive yoga classes to further support survivors' mental health and well-being. She is excited to join 鈥渁 small but mighty team鈥� and continue to grow what the previous director, Kim Rouse, established.

Reflecting on her experience, Marsal Koch said, "I love watching students get the support they need to meet their goals, graduate and not let challenges stop them from succeeding. It鈥檚 incredible to be a part of that journey."

Marsal Koch is a licensed professional clinical counselor with a supervisory credential, which means she鈥檒l supervise social work students working in the department. She loves the opportunity to work with students to grow their clinical experience and talent and says it鈥檚 one of her favorite parts of the role.

Marsal Koch looks forward to continuing SAP's strong connections with local healthcare providers and law enforcement while expanding services to meet the evolving needs of 51社区 students.

51社区鈥檚 Survivor Advocacy Program provides confidential support and advocacy services to student survivors of sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating/domestic violence, and stalking. You can meet with an advocate virtually or in-person in Lindley Hall.