Emily Tau
Public Affairs Director, Milwaukee County Office of the Executive

Emily Tau is a connector at heart: a dedicated public servant, passionate public health advocate, and unwavering champion for equity, healing, and community well-being. A proud Marquette University graduate with a degree in Public Relations and Theatre Arts, she combines sharp communication skills with a deep commitment to addressing the social determinants of health that shape the lives of Milwaukeeans. 

As Public Affairs Director for Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, Emily fosters meaningful relationships and advances initiatives that uplift communities, driven by the County’s vision to achieve health through racial equity. Her dedication to educating, celebrating, and supporting Milwaukee has been the through line of her career, spanning roles with VISIT Milwaukee, the City of Milwaukee Health Department, and the Milwaukee County Office of the Executive. She has built a career of placing the health and strength of Milwaukee as her north star. 

A strong mental health advocate, Emily recently co-chaired and emceed NAMI Southeast Wisconsin’s 2025 annual fundraiser, raising awareness and support for no-cost mental health programs. She was honored with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s 2024 Jackie Herd-Barber Award for her impactful communication and ability to unite people around equity. Emily serves on the boards of Arts Midwest and Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, and was named one of Wisconsin’s 20 Most Influential Asian American Leaders in 2025.

Wellness Wisdom: Rest is productive, not shameful. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and sometimes the most productive thing you can do is step away, rest, and trust in your community for support. Because wellness is collective, not just personal.