Burrel Vann Jr.

Dr. Burrel Vann Jr. is an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice at the School of Public Affairs, San Diego State University. His research focuses on cultural and political change, particularly how advocacy organizations shift public perceptions about drugs and influence policymaking, alongside intersections with race and inequality. He employs quantitative and computational methods in his work.

• Education: Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of California, Irvine

His research has been published in journals such as American Sociological Review, Mobilization, and Sociology Compass, and supported by grants from the Ford Foundation, Center for the Study of Democracy, and Data Science Initiative. He has developed courses on quantitative methods, policy analysis, and social movements.

Scientific Awards:

• Best Paper Award, ASA Section on Methodology
• Best Paper Award, SSSP Drinking and Drugs Division

As an educator, he emphasizes connecting diverse student identities to course material, critiquing societal structures, and equipping students with tools for social change. He also explores interdisciplinary intersections, such as applying machine learning to policy questions.