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Miliaikeala SJ. Heen, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the School of Public Policy and Leadership in the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs. Heen received her doctoral degree in criminology and criminal justice from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her dissertation, “(���Dz�-Consensual) Sex, Drugs & Rock n’ Roll: Sexual Harassment and Violence at Live Music Events,”examined the prevalence and contextual factors of unwanted sexual experiences among concert and festival attendees.

 As an interdisciplinary scholar, Heen collaborates on evidence-based initiatives that bridge research, education, policy, and practice to address pressing urban and social challenges. Her research focuses on resilience, both individual and community resilience, the role of social-emotional skills in fostering resilience, social connections and relationships, and collaboration at both micro and macro levels. She currently leads and contributes to research initiatives within the MGM Resorts Public Policy Institute (MGMPPI) and the Tourist Safety Institute (TSI).

Within the MGMPPI, Heen’s work centers on employee well-being and workplace quality of life, urban climate resilience that promotes equity and livability, and developing pathways to the middle class for vulnerable populations. Her research in the TSI builds on her doctoral work, examining live event safety and security policies, as well as mindfulness-based resilience interventions for emergency responders, and collaborative responses to human trafficking and disconnected youth.

 A passionate educator, Heen integrates experiential and simulation-based learning into her teaching to help students build resilience and adaptability. She is deeply engaged in curriculum development, designing impactful and meaningful experiences that prepare both undergraduate and graduate students for dynamic careers, while enhancing their well-being. Heen has played a key collaborative role in developing GSC 100: Urban Pathways, a first-year seminar course that equips students with tools for academic, professional, and personal success.

Through collaborative and interdisciplinary research, policy engagement, and student mentorship, Heen remains committed to fostering resilient individuals and communities while ensuring that research translates into meaningful societal impact.