Meet the Research Team

K Scherrer, PhD, MA, LCSW

Principal Investigator

K Scherrer (them/them), is a Professor of Social Work at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Their areas of expertise in research and practice include gender, GLBTQ+ identities, social inequalities, families, gerontology, and intergenerational issues. Dr. Scherrer received a BA in Sociology and Psychology from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and completed an MSW, a MA in Sociology and a PhD in Social Work and Sociology at the University of Michigan.

Emily Kazyak, PhD, MA

Principal Investigator

Emily Kazyak (she/her) is a Professor of Sociology and Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her research and teaching focus on LGBTQ studies, families, and law. Dr. Kazyak received a BA in Sociology from Ohio University, and completed a MA and PhD in Sociology at the University of Michigan.

Research Assistants

Alejandra Vasquez

Alejandra (she/her), a Political Science Ph.D. student specializing in human rights at The University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has a professional background centered on assisting homeless and community service providers. Her research revolves around international and civil conflict, along with human rights violations. Excited about her involvement in this research project, Alejandra is eager to witness the positive impact it will have on people’s lives.

Emilio Leone

Emilio (they/he) is a Master’s student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Sociology. Their research interests revolve around LGBTQ+ people, Mental health, and Religious affiliation. They are excited to work with the team on this project and further their understanding of LGBTQ people and their relationship dynamics.

Mac Dvorak

Mac (they/them) is a Master of Social Work student at Metropolitan State University in Denver. They have led youth participatory action research projects focusing on systemic change driven by young people. Mac has worked extensively with LGBTQ+ and trauma-impacted youth, combining research and practice to advocate for equitable policies and transformative community engagement. They are excited to deepen their understanding of how queer theory can illuminate the unique dynamics and resilience of intergenerational queer families through this project.