Sharon M. Quinsaat

Sharon M. Quinsaat is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology at Grinnell College, commencing her two-year appointment in August 2016. She holds a PhD in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh, where her dissertation research was supported by a National Science Foundation Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grant.

Her research focuses on social movements, transnational migration, and diaspora formation with regional expertise in Southeast Asia and Asian American communities. She argues that diasporas emerge as outcomes of transnational mobilization rather than as pre-existing agents of change—a perspective developed through her dissertation on the Filipino diaspora (1965-1992).

Dr. Quinsaat has published in leading journals including:

• Ethnic and Racial Studies
• Mass Communication and Society
• Sociology Compass
• Asian Survey

Her scholarly recognition includes:

• National Science Foundation Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grant

As a new faculty member, she brings expertise in transnational social movement theory to Grinnell's undergraduate curriculum. Her research trajectory suggests active engagement with global migration networks and diaspora politics, offering students unique perspectives on how political mobilization reshapes identity across borders. She maintains a professional website at http://www.sharonquinsaat.com for ongoing scholarly updates.