Susan E. Stiritz

Susan E. Sriritz’s work in sexuality has grown to create lasting impact and to destigmatize the field – among her students, throughout WashU, in the St. Louis community, and far beyond.  

For over two decades, Susan has taught sexuality courses at WashU and conducted sex research centered on holistic sexuality education and developmental sexuality. Her work led to her founding the Sexual Health and Education specialization in the Master of Social Work program at the Brown School ten years ago, which she continues to chair.  

“Susan has been a catalyst for sexual health and education on campus for graduate and undergraduate students and faculty,” said longtime friend Bob Virgil. “She is a passionate advocate for providing students with the knowledge and resources needed for sexual health and awareness…she makes students feel comfortable about asking questions they may find intimidating and openly addresses matters of sex, gender, and sexual preferences in a safe and educational environment.” 

Susan’s passion for learning led her to earn five academic degrees, including a PhD in English and American Literature in 2001, and a Master of Social Work in 2010 from WashU. She joined the WashU School of Arts & Sciences faculty in 2001 in the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and in 2013 she became a senior lecturer in the Brown School — and is now a Professor of Practice.  

She is published in various peer-reviewed journals, including the American Journal of Sexuality Education, and is a Certified Sexuality Educator and a Certified Sexuality Education Supervisor, as well as a member of the St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute faculty. She is a past president of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, and a board member and chair of the education committee of Planned Parenthood of St. Louis. 

Students in the Sexual Health and Education program do their practica across the region, in organizations such as Paraquad, Planned Parenthood, and nonprofits that serve children in the mental health space. “They are able to bring their understanding of sexual health, sexuality, and development to really help people in the region grapple with all areas of their life,” Virgil said.  

But Susan also explores the implications of her work beyond her direct work as an educator, sexologist, psychoanalyst and social worker. Her passion was a driver behind the creation of the Brown School’s Sexuality, Health and Gender Center, and she stresses the important of student health, safety, and well-being throughout their WashU education. 

“Susan’s courage, doggedness, brilliance, and leadership broke new ground in the field of sexuality, and then brought the benefits to students and to youths, parents, and stigmatized populations in the St. Louis region,” Virgil said.