Sarah Riccardi-Swartz

Sarah Riccardi-Swartz is an Assistant Professor of Religion and Anthropology at Northeastern University's College of Social Sciences and Humanities. She holds a Ph.D. in Sociocultural Anthropology from New York University, with additional training in Culture and Media studies. Her research bridges religious studies, anthropology, and digital culture, focusing on topics like Orthodox Christianity in America, transnational religious networks, and the intersection of technology and faith.

Dr. Riccardi-Swartz's work examines how conservative religious groups engage with global politics, particularly through her book Between Heaven and Russia, which explores Appalachian converts to Russian Orthodoxy and their political allegiances. She teaches courses such as Introduction to Religious Studies and Ethnographic Methods, emphasizing critical analysis of religion's role in society.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. and M.Phil in Anthropology, NYU
  • B.A./M.A. in Religious Studies, Missouri State University
• Affiliations:
  • American Academy of Religion
  • American Anthropological Association

Her research interests include far-right ideologies, digital ethnography, and the gendered dimensions of religious practices. She has published widely on topics like Orthodox internet celebrities, women's roles in religious communities, and the impact of technology on sacred traditions.

Riccardi-Swartz's work often highlights marginalized voices and challenges conventional narratives about American religion. She is affiliated with Northeastern's Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies Program and actively contributes to interdisciplinary dialogues about culture, politics, and spirituality.