Heather Gifford

Dr. Heather Gifford is an Assistant Professor of Sociology & Criminal Justice at Mercyhurst University. Her research focuses on transnational migration processes, migrant experiences in Southeast Asia (particularly the Philippines), and intersections of social class, gender, race, and sexual identities. She actively engages in human trafficking education, policy reform, and directs the SAINT Intel Project through the Mercyhurst Center for Intelligence Research Analysis and Training.

• Education: B.A. Boise State University; M.A. University of Illinois Chicago; Ph.D. University of Illinois Urbana Champaign
• Teaching Focus: Global Social Problems, Human Trafficking, Victimology, Race/Gender/Sexuality Studies, Civic Engagement

Dr. Gifford bridges academia and community through initiatives like the SAINT Project, which involves students in trafficking research and policy work in Pennsylvania. She has presented at sociology conferences, served on the Midwest Sociological Society's Social Action Committee, and mentored student researchers.