Social Impact Studio

WestEast Design's Social Impact Studio (SIS) is spearheaded by a licensed master's degree social worker, dedicated to undertaking comprehensive projects in the realm of human service initiatives. Our work includes but is not limited to homeless facilities encompassing emergency shelters, supportive housing options, and transformational campuses. Our commitment to excellence and social welfare drives us to employ a multidimensional approach that addresses diverse societal challenges.

The SIS takes pride in its research-driven designs, particularly in the domain of trauma-informed design (TID). We delve into contemporary literature on TID and actively involve existing consumers of affordable housing in our investigations. We assimilate the valuable consumer perspective through focus group sessions, ensuring that the design and function of these communities resonate with the needs and preferences of their inhabitants.

At the heart of our endeavors lies an ambition to serve as a catalyst in addressing social crises and cultivating thriving communities. By applying our meticulously honed methodologies and leveraging our team's expertise, we aim to effectuate positive change on a significant scale.
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The SIS firmly believes that fostering healthy and supportive environments can contribute substantially to the betterment of society as a whole. With an unwavering commitment to social impact, we persistently strive to improve the lives of those we serve and shape a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Core Principles

Trauma-Informed

We understand the impact of trauma on the human experience and this understanding permeates every phase of our process
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Person Centered

We value the worth and dignity of all people                                                                                                      

Recovery-Oriented

We understand that each person is unique and should be supported in making their own decisions regarding what recovery means for them
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System-Perspective

We understand the complexities of social issues and the need for multi-sector and multi-system approaches to analyzing and solving them
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Evidence-Based

We incorporate peer-reviewed research into each phase of our process, allowing us to continuously learn and improve

Our Team

Scott Ackerson, LMSW

Director

Scott Ackerson, LMSW is a nationally recognized leader in homelessness systems planning, housing strategy, and human services reform, with more than two decades of experience designing, implementing, and evaluating programs that serve people experiencing homelessness and housing instability. A licensed master social worker, Scott has worked across the public, nonprofit, and consulting sectors, advising cities, counties, states, and Continuums of Care on evidence-based approaches to homelessness prevention, crisis response, and permanent housing solutions. His work emphasizes system integration, data-driven decision-making, and the alignment of housing, behavioral health, and social services to improve outcomes for individuals and families. Scott has played key roles in the development of coordinated entry systems, Housing First and Permanent Supportive Housing initiatives, emergency shelter transformation, and large-scale campus and system redesign efforts. He is known for his ability to translate federal and state policy—including HUD, ESG, CoC, and state housing and homelessness funding—into practical, locally tailored strategies that communities can implement and sustain. Throughout his career, Scott has been a trusted advisor to elected officials, senior administrators, service providers, and community stakeholders, bringing a balanced perspective that combines clinical insight, policy expertise, and operational realism. He is particularly respected for his work in high-complexity environments where homelessness intersects with behavioral health, justice involvement, and long-term poverty. Scott holds a Master of Social Work and maintains licensure as an LMSW. He is frequently sought out for strategic planning, facilitation, system assessments, and executive advising related to homelessness and housing systems transformation.

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James Andrews, FRIBA, AIA'Int'l Assoc, LEED AP

Vice President

James Andrews, FRIBA, AIA INT'L ASSOC, LEED AP, has over thirty years of Urban Design and Architectural experience. His background includes designing nationally recognized facilities for those experiencing homelessness and suffering trauma. A strategic thinker and consensus builder who understands the myriad of challenges facing communities and stakeholders. He focuses on human centered solutions that strive to bring consensus and are specific to local needs.

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Miguel Saldaña

Sr. Project Architect

Miguel brings an extensive background leading housing projects, with an emphasis on adaptive-use and historic preservation. His dedication to exploring housing extends to membership and a past co-chair role in San Antonio Urban Land Institute’s Housing Local Member Council. Miguel combines deep experience in the sector with a dedication to thoughtful design and client success.

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Marina Flores

Social Impact & Strategic Initiatives Manager

Marina is a public servant who brings 5+ years of experience of grassroots and community engagement work in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas. As a certified Community Health Worker, or "Promotora," with the Texas Department of State Health Services, she receives specialized training to provide basic health education, conduct outreach, and act as a cultural mediator in her community. Marina is a proud graduate of the Latina Leadership Institute - Class 8 and serves on a handful of boards and committees to include the House of Neighborly Services, Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of San Antoino - Seton Home, and the Food Policy Council of San Antonio. She is driven by work that is grounded in authentic relationships, strategic initiatives, and the opportunity to connect people and organizations in ways that create measurable, long-lasting impact.

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Katherine Dillard Gonzalez, PhD

Principal Consultant - Ladder Logik

Katherine Dillard Gonzalez is the Founder and Principal Consultant of Ladder Logik, which she established in 2011 to strengthen organizational capacity and drive systemic change that improves community outcomes. With over 20 years of experience working with federal, state, and local governments and nonprofits nationwide, her work focuses on transforming service delivery and fostering innovation. She also serves as a Research Fellow at The University of Texas at Austin and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Dillard Gonzalez holds a Ph.D. in Public and Urban Policy and is fluent in Spanish for professional communication.

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Expert Knowledge

Program Development & Implementation

  • Community Engagement
  • Evidence-Based Practices
  • Cross-Sector Engagement/Interventions
  • Affordable Housing Supportive Services

Consulting

  • HUD CoC
  • Community Development
  • Housing/Homeless Policy
  • Homeless Systems of Care
  • Strategic Planning
  • Organizational Development

Research & Program Evaluation

  • Post Occupancy Evaluation
  • Regulatory Compliance & Monitoring
  • Human Services System Evaluations
  • Organizational & Program Assessments

Design

  • Trauma-Informed Design
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