Sexuality, Health and Gender (SHAG) Center
Exploring sexuality through research, education, and training
Welcome to the SHAG Center!
Sexuality is central to human development across the life course, encompassing sexual identity and expression, gender identities and roles, sexual diversities, intimacy, reproduction and safety. Despite its importance to all individuals’ lives, significant gaps remain in research, education and training.
The SHAG Center was established by faculty in the Sexual Health and Education Specialization at the Brown School of Social Work to address these critical gaps.
SHAG Team at Audre Lorde Distinguished Professor installation, November 2023 
Masters & Johnson Lecture – November 2023 (pictured: Emily Nagoski, speaker & Dorian Traube, Brown School Dean) 
SHAG Team at Masters & Johnson Lecture – November 2023 
Dr. Matifazda Hlatshwayo Davis delivers talk as part of 2022 Masters & Johnson Lecture Series 
SHAG Center Affiliated Faculty
Center Priorities
The Sexuality, Health, and Gender (SHAG) Center includes contingents of tenure line, research, clinical and teaching faculty focused on the integration of sexuality into research, education and practice.
The SHAG Center focuses efforts on the following core activities:
- Collaboration between all lines of faculty across the WashU community and beyond with significant student inclusion
- Advancement of rigorous science in SHAG-relevant areas
- Promotion of pilot projects to encourage new research and practice partnerships
- Promotion of colloquium and other opportunities for idea development and mentorship
- Training of workforce by developing and promoting continuing education opportunities
Mission & Vision
Vision: A world where sexuality is central to pursuing health, wellness, and social justice.
Mission: Through education, research, and practice on the role of sexuality and gender in health, the SHAG Center works to improve the well-being of all people.