Dr. Kelly Asao
Utahn Since 2019
Yonsei (Japanese American) and Professor of Psychology
I came to Utah as a professor of psychology at Westminster University. It was supposed to only be a one-year visiting appointment, but I fell in love (both metaphorically with Salt Lake City, and actually with my now-husband). My identities are an especially vibrant and central part of my life in Utah as a queer, Japanese American woman and educator. Growing up in California, there were many other people who looked like me. When I first moved to Utah, I felt alone. I felt a powerful desire to find my people and uplift my communities.
Kelly’s Top Places, Spaces, & Things that Help Make Utah Home:
“Home is where your people are. Find your people, uplift your community. We’re here.”
Dr. Kelly Asao