Description
My work examines the power dynamics of sustainable development and addresses deficiencies related to stakeholder participation. Focusing on production and trade, I investigate producer experiences with market-based certifications, technical support, and development research. In addition to exploring the intersections of race, gender, and class, I clarify the historical and cultural dimensions affecting rural livelihoods to ensure more nuanced understanding of sustainability challenges and opportunities. Having worked in multiple world regions, I maintain a broad interest in emerging economies. Most recently, I conducted action research in South Africa, where I worked with small-scale Rooibos tea farmers to develop a ‘participatory commodity networking’ approach to producer support. Previously, I have worked in West Africa, where I evaluated development assistance to small-scale farmers in northern Ghana. I also have worked in Eastern Europe where I studied the impact of European Union accession on Latvia's organic farming movement.
Ph.D. in Sociology, Colorado State University
M.A. International Development and Social Change, Clark University
B.A. Anthropology and French, University of Utah
Location
Glendale, USA
