Emma Merrigan

Emma came to WashU to complete her PhD in Hispanic Studies with a graduate certificate in Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies (WGSS), programs through which she studied representations of disability in Cuban literature, film, and art from the 1959 Revolution until today. Among other roles, she has worked in the Writing Center; Undergraduate Admissions; and taught language, cultures, and critical theory for Spanish and WGSS. Since 2022, Emma has served as an Academic Advisor in the College Office, where she currently leads Ampersand Scholarship cohort programming, creates storytelling about students’ experiential learning, and coordinates ArtSci internship credit. 

Emma’s research and pedagogical training in offices like the Center for Diversity & Inclusion have reinforced her commitment to accessibility in all areas of higher education. As an advisor, Emma seeks to support students holistically by honoring and uplifting their unique capacities and knowledge. When not in the office, she can be found crafting, birding, or indulging in reality TV with her partner and fur-babies.