Mr. Ian Wilson, MSW

“Keepers of the Secret Code: Where Research Intertwines with the Streets”

Ian Wilson graduated in 2004 from Wheeling Jesuit University with degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology. While at WJU, he was a Resident Assistant, active with student government, and played center on his intramural football team. Ian has conducted and presented research studies at local, state and national conferences on a variety of topics, including sham intoxication, caffeine effects, aggression, sensory deprivation, higher education in Appalachia, domestic violence, and the Resident Assistant’s use of discretion. His time in Wheeling also laid a foundation of volunteerism, as he spent time teaching life skills at the Juvenile Detention Center, remodeling the St. Alphonsus Parish basement to create an after school program, and mentoring through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program.

Following graduation, Ian spent an eye-opening year with the Jesuit Volunteer Corp in Nashville, Tennessee, where he served men and women recently released from prison. Ian went on to pursue his Masters in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. While in Chicago, Ian worked as a case manager and therapist for adjudicated teens impacted by gangs, drugs, mental health, and poverty. His research at Loyola explored the disaffiliation experience of gang members.

Settling in Pittsburgh with his wife and fellow WJU alum, Toni, Ian is working as a mental health service coordinator with Human Services Administration Organization. The families he works with are impacted by serious mental health diagnoses, unique educational limitation, substance abuse issues, poverty, violence, abuse, and many other needs. Ian coordinates teams that use a research-based approach known as High Fidelity Wraparound to empower families to make effective use of the professionals and natural supports in their lives.

During his free time, Ian enjoys doing handyman projects around the house, getting involved in local government, exploring Pittsburgh restaurants, traveling, and gardening.