She earned her Ph.D. from the Tulane School of Social Work in 2009, and her MSSW degree from the University of Tennessee. Since 1999, Dr. Gillis has focused her teaching efforts on field education, methods of practice, learning and research for practice, and preparing students to complete the professional project. Students at the Tulane School of Social Work have to complete 990 hours at a field placement in order to receive their master's degree. Heather coordinates not only the placement process but also works with community organizations to ensure they are paired with the correct student to meet both of their needs. Dr. Gillis is a licensed clinical social worker and a board-approved clinical supervisor who has worked in direct practice for more than 20 years.