03/08/2026
For Social Work Month this March, we are spotlighting some of our amazing social workers here at UPMC Children’s.
Emily Neumann, MSW, LSW, shares what led her to pursue the profession and reflects on the most rewarding part of her job.
“While growing up, I was connected with people and professionals in my life that inspired me to strive to be a warm and steady presence to those in hard and difficult circumstances. In college, I had internship experiences working with people experiencing hardship and barriers due to incarceration and addiction.
“My personal and academic experiences pushed me to pursue a master’s degree in social work. Social work is a space where I can both advocate for change in oppressive systems, while helping others navigate the logistics and emotions of having to exist within those systems.”
Emily started as a transplant and inpatient rehabilitation social work student at UPMC Children’s. After graduation, she was hired as the overnight social worker and later transitioned to her current role as an emergency department and trauma social worker. She notes enjoying the fast-paced environment and multidisciplinary teamwork of the emergency department and trauma service.
“The most rewarding part of being a social worker is having a job that is based in human connection. I am continuously honored and humbled by the families who allow me to walk alongside them during crisis, vulnerable moments, and critical times.
“I am regularly amazed by the resilience present in patients and families as well as my coworkers: nurses, social workers, physicians, child life specialists, patient care technicians, and everyone else at CHP who support patients, families, and each other.”
Outside of work, Emily enjoys reading, camping, birding, and spending time with her friends, family, and two cats Archie and Violet.
