Rev. Geneece Goertzen, LMSW, MDiv, PhD student

Baylor University

Rev. Gen is a survivor of more than two decades of domestic violence who has turned that experience into advocacy for others. After escaping abuse, she returned to school to complete master’s degrees in theology and social work, was ordained as a minister, and is now working on her PhD in the School of Social Work at Baylor University. She has taught numerous workshops on abuse, serves on the board of directors for the Family Abuse Center in Waco, and alongside the Texas Council on Family Violence, has testified before the state legislature on bills that affect victims and survivors. She is currently working on a study grant through the Louisville Institute, conducting research on resiliency in survivors and how faith affects healing after abuse. Her book, a guide for faith leaders in best practices regarding the response to domestic violence in their congregations, is due out in 2024.