About Us
The Center for Innovative Transition, Education & Employment (CITEE) was founded in 2017 by Elizabeth Watson, PhD, and Jessica Smith, MSW, CAPSW. CITEE is a statewide, interdisciplinary team dedicated to advancing behavioral health, disability services, workforce development, and transition programs.
Entirely grant-funded, CITEE has grown from a single project to leading as many as 15 simultaneous regional, statewide, and national initiatives, applying implementation science to deliver measurable, scalable results. CITEE is known for its agility and solution-focused approach, navigating complex federal and state funding requirements while building lasting relationships with funders, legislators, academics, and community leaders.
Other Important Information About CITEE
Housed in the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee’s College of Community Engagement & Professions, which encompasses the School of Education, the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, and the school of Informational Studies, CITEE partners with community organizations, state agencies, federal agencies, educational institutions, and employers to improve quality of life and employment outcomes for individuals.
CITEE also provides hands-on learning opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, equipping them with skills for careers in education, social work, data management, and beyond. Guided by the Wisconsin Idea – that education should benefit individuals far beyond the classroom – CITEE leverages university resources to create practical, sustainable solutions and demonstrates a strong record of transparency and community impact.
CITEE was established by Elizabeth and I to bridge the gap between research, policy, and practice to advance and sustain best practices in disability and behavioral health through the spirit of the Wisconsin Idea. I am proud of the collaborative achievements of our team and partners over the past 9 years. Looking ahead, I’m excited for many more years of innovation and community engagement as we continue to evolve and meet the implementation needs of Wisconsinites.
Meet Our Staff
- watsonea@uwm.edu
- 414-251-9623
- Enderis Hall
- smit3962@uwm.edu
- 414-251-9112
- Enderis Hall
- johanse7@uwm.edu
- 414-251-8719
- Enderis Hall