Dr. Ava Yang is a visiting assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, teaching Hmong American Studies courses in the Asian American Studies program.

In addition to teaching, Dr. Yang's professional work scope and interest include counseling, research, evaluation, and consultation. She has been engaged in practice as a mental health therapist and as a career counselor. She has served as a consultant for organizations and agencies and for a school district in the area of community needs assessment, program evaluation, research, and education and training.

Dr. Yang has conducted research examining identity development, school-based intervention programming, career development, resilience, and counselor intercultural competence development. Dr. Yang holds a Ph.D. degree in counseling psychology from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.

In addition to her scholarship, Dr. Yang enjoys good food and company, spending time with her large extended family, and travelling (especially to states and countries with warmer climates).